Miller Family Build

Eric Miller is a single father to Annabeth (8) and Lincoln (6). His family lives in a modest two-bedroom apartment. The cramped living conditions mean his children must share a bedroom; a situation they find challenging. Additionally, high rent and heating costs, and the need for a storage unit due to limited space, have placed significant financial strain on the family.
 

In 2018, Eric's life took a drastic turn when a severe car accident resulted in a broken back. Over the subsequent years, he underwent six spinal surgeries and now, at 28, faces the prospect of a hip replacement. The aftermath of the accident led to a five-year work hiatus and the dissolution of his marriage, granting him full custody of his children. The combined challenges led to the loss of their previously owned home.
 

Determined to rebuild, Eric secured employment at Elkhart Plastics, where he has been working diligently for over two years. It was through the Salvation Army's Pathway of Hope program that Eric learned about Habitat for Humanity's homeownership initiative. In 2024, he applied and was overjoyed to be accepted.

Habitat’s program requires participants to engage in homeownership and financial literacy classes, as well as contribute "sweat equity" by volunteering on the construction of their own homes or those of others. Given Eric's prior experience as a homeowner, he confidently navigated the budgeting and homeownership courses, often sharing insights from his past. His passion for hands-on work and woodworking made volunteering on construction sites particularly fulfilling. Under the guidance of Habitat's construction team, Jay and Jake, Eric acquired new skills and a deeper appreciation for the building process.
 

Beyond their housing aspirations, the Miller family treasures simple joys like board games. Annabeth's involvement in Girl Scouts, with Eric serving as a Scout Leader, underscores their commitment to community engagement. The prospect of a new home brings dreams of a backyard with a fire pit and dedicated spaces for the children. Eric envisions festive decorations during Halloween and Christmas, creating lasting memories for his family.
 

Reflecting on his own upbringing with a single mother and limited opportunities for vacations, Eric is determined to offer his children broader experiences. With the stability of an affordable mortgage, he is diligently saving for a family trip to Disneyland in 2027, aiming to provide his children with cherished experiences he once only dreamed of.

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Eric chose a lot on N 2nd St, Elkhart. The home will be a 3-bedroom,  1 1/2 bath, and a total area of 1,176 square feet.

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