Hazwood
Family Build

Hazwood Family

Telia Hazwood, a dedicated single mother, has two sons: Daveyon, 23, who lives independently in Ft. Wayne, and Dalynn, 15, who lives with her in a third-floor apartment. Living with asthma, Telia finds the daily climb challenging, and the annual rent increases have made her financial situation increasingly difficult.

Telia has worked for the Elkhart Community School Corporation for nine years, most recently with ESL students, a role she is passionate about. Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, she moved to Elkhart after graduating, accompanied by her older brother.

Telia first learned about Habitat's homeownership program from a friend who had successfully gone through it. Despite being disqualified several times initially, she kept applying. Her perseverance paid off when she was finally accepted into the program in 2023. Overwhelmed with joy, she felt like her dream had come true and believed it was part of God's plan for her and her son.

The Habitat homeownership program and financial education classes taught Telia crucial lessons about saving money and maintaining a savings account. She enjoyed her "sweat-equity" hours, discovering her bravery as she climbed ladders and overcame her fear of heights. The camaraderie she found with other partner families created a supportive sisterhood that felt like family.

Owning her own home promises Telia peace, security, and financial freedom. It fulfills a long-held dream that would have been impossible without Habitat's help. Unlike rent, her mortgage payments contribute to a permanent asset. She is looking forward to gardening, hosting BBQs, and providing Dalynn with a safe place to ride his bike.