Collier County – As we embrace the cool December air, the sense of community in Whitaker Woods grows warmer. It’s with great pleasure that we bring you a story filled with transformation, hope, and fresh starts.

 

On December 9, 2023, United Way of Collier and the Keys President and CEO, Tiffani Mensch, alongside Ashley Jones, Vice President of Community Impact, had the privilege of participating in a home dedication, partially funded through UWCK. This significant event unfolded in the peaceful Whitaker Woods, representing more than just home construction; 23 families became homeowners during the ceremony.

 

“A special thanks goes to the volunteers from Trinity by the Cove for sharing their invaluable time and talents, which truly are treasures in our community,” said Lisa Lefkow, Habitat for Humanity of Collier County Chief Executive Officer.

Lefkow went on to say “Let us remember that each brick laid, each wall painted, and each garden planted is not just about building homes, but about forging communities, nurturing dreams, and creating a foundation for a brighter future.”

 

By the end of June, this project will see the completion of homes for 125 families, a testament to our community members’ hard work and dreams. Right now, we want to introduce you to one of the 23 families who became homeowners.

 

The Morales Family’s Homeownership Journey

The contribution from United Way of Collier and the Keys has been a ray of hope for Jaime, Tania Morales, and their delightful two-year-old son, Jose. Jaime, who is dedicated to his job in grounds maintenance at Naples Heritage Country Club, and Tania, who recently earned her nail tech certification, are the epitome of perseverance and hard work. Their quest to provide a secure and nurturing home for their son, whose cheerful demeanor never fails to charm, has been a journey marked by both struggles and triumphs.

 

Confronted with the escalating rental prices in Naples, the Morales family endured a cramped living space in a converted Lanai room, making ends meet under challenging circumstances. Nevertheless, their aspiration for a comfortable, stable home remained unwavering. Jaime’s heartfelt words in his Habitat application echoed their longing for change: “I am applying for a Habitat home because the rents are outrageous in Naples. This home will help us financially. I want to provide my family with a place we can call our own.”

Their Dream Fulfilled

Thanks to collaborative efforts and hard work by the Morales family, their dream has been realized. They now reside in their permanent home in Whitaker Woods, a haven where young Jose can flourish in a secure and loving environment. The relief and happiness evident in their expressions are a powerful reminder of the strength of community support and the profound impact of our united generosity.

 

“The Morales family’s journey to their new home is a story of resilience and shared purpose. I look forward to continuing our work with Habitat for Humanity of Collier County to build a community where every family can find a safe, comfortable, and permanent place to call home,” said Tiffani Mensch, President and CEO of United Way of Collier and the Keys.

 

Wrapping up Saturday’s ceremony, each new homeowner received gift baskets filled with items of deep meaning.

“These include provisions symbolizing hopes and prayers, flowers to ensure beauty in your new home, a candle to cast out darkness, bread so you may never be hungry, salt to add flavor to your life, and sugar to make your life’s experiences sweet,” said Lefkow.

 

 

-Ashley Jones, MSW
Vice President of Community Impact, United Way of Collier and the Keys