Denise
The morning after Hurricane Helene struck Haywood County, Denise found her rental home submerged under six feet of water. In the aftermath, she faced the uncertainty of being unhoused, along with significant financial and health challenges.
Amid these hardships, Denise also experienced the strength and compassion of a resilient community that stepped in to support her when she needed it most. Through that support, she was referred to Haywood Habitat for Humanity’s Homeownership Program.
Denise partnered with Habitat in 2025, dedicating herself to completing her sweat equity hours and financial education courses. Her hard work paid off when she closed on her new home in March 2026.
“Habitat was the hands and feet of Jesus to me through this journey,” Denise shared.
In a powerful act of generosity, Denise has chosen to gift her home back to Habitat upon her passing, ensuring that another family will one day have the same opportunity she received.
