Posted January 28, 2025

By CLEVELAND DAILY BANNER STAFF REPORTS

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland recently gathered for two home dedication ceremonies.

On Jan. 23, Flor Figueroa and Brenda Ware were surrounded by family, friends and their church congregations at the site of their newly constructed precast homes.

"The event highlighted resilience, faith and the transformative power of community," a press release stated.

To get to this point, Figueroa and Ware had to complete Habitat’s homeownership program, including educational classes and hundreds of sweat equity hours, with the support of their Cleveland community.

The ceremony featured moments of prayer and blessings, as Habitat staff, church leaders and volunteers shared heartfelt messages for the families and their future homes.

Among the inspiring stories shared was Figueroa's remarkable journey of love and perseverance. In 1972, she and her late husband, Eliseo, began building a life together, raising three children and welcoming fourteen grandchildren. After Eliseo’s passing last year, Figueroa has continued to honor their shared dream of homeownership.

With Habitat’s support, that dream is now becoming a reality. Figueroa looks forward to hosting her church family and creating new memories with her loved ones in her new home.

Ware, a retired preschool teacher and devoted mother of four, has faced her share of challenges, but her faith and determination have always been consistent.

Through Habitat, she has found not only the promise of a safe and affordable home, but also a newfound friendship with Figueroa, who will soon live right across the street from her. Ware looks forward to building a future filled with cherished moments with her children and grandchildren.

The dedication ceremony closed with words of gratitude for the donors, volunteers and community partners who made these homes possible. Amid song and prayer, this dedication was not only a celebration of Figueroa and Ware's new beginnings, but also an acknowledgement of the collective work and faith that brought their journey of homeownership to fruition.

"Their stories are powerful reminders that a home is more than a building — it is the foundation for memories, a place of safety and a source of lasting joy," the press release stated. "Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland extends thanks to all who contributed to these homes. Whether a volunteer, donor, neighbor or family, the home would not have been possible without the work of many hands."

The press release concluded, saying, "Together, we continue to build homes, communities and hope, ensuring that families like Figueroa's and Ware's have the strength and stability that come from a home built by their community."

For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland, visit habitatofcleveland.org.