Blair Family

Sheila Blair has led a seemingly normal life. She has successfully raised each of her children with love and instilled success within them. “I was raised by my grandmother, and she is a no-nonsense person, hence I am a no-nonsense person,” shared Sheila. “Straight forward and right to the point.” Despite the normalcy, Sheila has had her fair share of challenges throughout her life. Currently, she is assisting in caring for her disabled son James.

Currently, Sheila lives in a two-bedroom and half-bath townhome with her son James. Their rent is rising each year and with her age and James’ disability, the stairs are becoming unsafe for each of them. The uncertainty of how much we are going to pay with the rent already increased is worrisome,” said Sheila. “It's just me and James.” Sheila has family in the area to assist and have support but she wants a more stable safe home for her daily routine.

Upon being accepted into the habitat program, Sheila was overjoyed as was James. “When mom shared we were accepted, I praised God,” shared James. “I was listening to a gospel vinyl and praying about it. Then mom came right into the room and told me the good news.”

James is a lover of music and literature. He enjoys playing the piano, listening to music, and reading a variety of books. He also graduated from Cleveland State with a degree in music. "I love science fiction occasionally, the classics, anything theological," shared James. "As for music I love jazz and rock."

Sheila and James are looking forward to their set affordable housing and to having space that is safe for them both. While James will have his piano and books, Sheila will make room for her houseplants and cultivate new ideas about her outdoor landscaping.