Meet a Fullerton family

Success on Valencia Street

On January 10, 2009, Catalina, along with her mother and sister, received the keys to her Habitat home in Fullerton. Over a year later, she is happy to say that many things have changed in her life. She is now married, her family is now the owner of a yellow Labrador, she volunteers as a Habitat OC family partner and is expecting her first child.

After living in her Habitat home for over a year, Catalina decided to give back to another family by becoming a Habitat family partner. A family partner serves as a mentor and a source of support for a new Habitat family as they make their journey toward homeownership.

Catalina has worked hard to support her family by providing a safe place to live. This new home has made that dream come true. “Thank you to all the people who came out to help -- and for having the patience to teach me everything,” said Catalina, “When I first started I could not hammer a nail!” Now she knows how to build a home and volunteers her time...even as she prepares to make an addition to her family.

These eleven Habitat homes are revitalizing this formerly run-down neighborhood, and providing fresh new opportunities for residents such as Catalina to enjoy a stable environment and grow as community members. Catalina and her family are looking forward to their new neighbors on Valencia Drive.