This year, like the year before it, has been incredibly challenging for most of us. That's why it's wonderful to have traditions like Thanksgiving that ask us to slow down, reflect, and give thanks. This year, we're sharing notes of gratitude from Twin Cities Habitat clients, supporters, and staff past and present. But also know that we're all very thankful for YOU!
“I was blessed with this house through Habitat, so I want to be a blessing to anybody else who needs a place to stay, or a place to eat. My house is always open. I’m proud to be able to do that, because nothing is promised in life. That’s just me—the way I was brought up. I love life!”
“In our 4+ years of working with and donating to Habitat for Humanity/ReStore they have been an amazing partner that makes it easy to donate to and work with. Their mission to provide fair, quality, and affordable housing is important to Bellacor and we love the fact that our donated home furnishing and lighting products end up in homes that are created with love and respect."
"I think it’s really up to each one of us to find our own way to try to make a difference. And, especially in today’s world, it can seem overwhelming and easier to just sit back and not do anything—but joining together with others can be an empowering experience. It can lead us to take action and do something of service, and that can lead to lasting and positive changes in our communities and in ourselves."
"I would like to email you to thank you for everything you do to help me and family with the things we needed from Habitat for Humanity such as any information, documentation, and more. You never make me feel bad due to my language barrier. You always listen to me to understand what I say. I appreciated you for what you had done and now on because you make me feel better when I talk to you and when I have a hard situation. For example, I had a difficult situation during the time I paid off my home last year. You are always there for me and I had no worry who I would talk to."
Neng sent this note of gratitude to Bethany Nagan, Habitat's Mortgage Portfolio Manager, who assists Habitat homeowners with their affordable mortgages.
"I have found the fundraising experience to be very uplifting and people are so generous. People like to hear about your personal connection to a cause, and this one [Habitat] is such an easy one to wrap your head around due to such visible and impactful outcomes. It’s a win-win opportunity."
“We really believe that stable homeownership and stable housing gives people that leg to do so many other great things. So we really take that to heart – that housing and hunger have to be at the beginning of things or people cannot succeed.”
“I just felt so grateful [moving into my Habitat home]. It gave me a sense of peace because I knew this home was mine now. I don’t have to move if I don’t want to. It’s a sense of security. And I can do what I want with it!”
“As I’m healing, I enjoy my space so much. The kids and I are so happy here. [The A Brush with Kindness team] gave us a home again. I just want to thank each one of them, and all the volunteers that came out to help. I just want to let them know how much I appreciate them.”
“The Restore is an amazing place. Not only is Habitat for Humanity’s mission important and community-focused, but their second-hand and lightly-used furniture could save you thousands of dollars...The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and helpful. They offer pickup services and will hold your purchased goods for three business days while you make arrangements to come and pick up your furniture. If you become a member of the Restore VIP club you get additional discounts. This place is amazing and it’s such a good cause. I don’t know where I would be without them! Go support your local Restore today!”
You can join Elizabeth as a ReStore VIP Club Member by signing up today; learn more >
“Habitat’s putting you in this amazing position to succeed, so you will! It will be good for you, good for your family, good for your finances. You will be successful. It will lay the foundation for whatever you want to do!”
Read Kera's story about buying a home with Habitat on the open market >
We hope you enjoyed reading these messages of gratitude. What are you thankful for? Leave your notes of gratitude in the comments!