Hociel and Silvia
When Silvia and her husband, Hociel, decided they wanted to find a place to start a family, they knew they needed a more permanent, stable environment than the apartment complex in which they were living.
In apartments, there are always problems, Silvia explained. You share walls and outdoor spaces and you don't always have the best neighbors.
The family wanted to find an affordable home that offered space for growing children and a community of like-minded neighbors. For Silvia, Proud Ground offered an opportunity for housing that met all their needs.
Reflecting on the benefits afforded by Proud Ground, Silvia is quick to describe the self-sufficiency and security their home allows.
It's a great feeling of independence and stability, she says.
The family appreciated the help they received navigating the home-buying process. Moreover, they are especially grateful for the community of good neighbors Proud Ground helped them find.
The neighbors are great people, offers Silvia. We know them all and that makes me feel safe.
Recently, the neighborhood all came together to paint the sidewalks on the intersection, something Silvia found very fun and unifying.
"I am very happy, she admits. It is a good group of neighbors, each supporting the other.
Today, with the family's housing secure, Silvia enjoys focusing on the future of her family. Two of the three started school this year and the family is eagerly awaiting the birth of their fourth child. Silvia is committed to raising their children to be bilingual in English and Spanish and surrounding them with their rich cultural heritage.
We want them to grow up smart and strong, Silvia says. We want to make sure they continue in school and grow to be helpful adults working and contributing to the world.