Smothers Family
Hunter and Kalista are proud parents to three young children—Carson (6), Kenson (3), and Kennedy (2). Hunter works as a Senior Bank Teller at Inova Federal Credit Union, while Kalista stays home to care for their children. For the past five years, the family has lived in a two-bedroom apartment in the Waterfall High Rise public housing. Their current living conditions are difficult—roaches infest the building, the windows do not open, and there is no heating or air conditioning. Because of safety concerns, Hunter and Kalista do not allow their children to play outside.
Their journey with Habitat began when they noticed two Habitat build sites while driving. Curious, they called the number listed and soon learned about Habitat’s affordable homeownership program. When applications opened, they applied right away. Kalista admitted that she convinced herself that they would not be accepted and broke down in tears when the acceptance call came. For Hunter, the news was the best thing he had heard all year.
The couple is excited to build a safe and stable home where their children can have a yard to play in and where they can start new family traditions. Hunter shared how much pride he feels knowing he is taking steps toward providing stability for his family, and both he and Kalista are deeply grateful for the opportunity.
Their Habitat journey has also been transformative in their faith. While Kalista already had a strong belief in Christ, Hunter had not yet embraced faith. Through their time in the program, Kalista’s faith has deepened, and Hunter has shared that “the seeds were planted.” Today, he proudly proclaims his belief and is thankful for how his relationship with God has grown.
Hunter and Kalista have enjoyed working on other partner families’ homes, learning new skills, and building alongside Habitat’s construction team—an experience they describe as fun and uplifting. They also say the program has helped them grow in financial literacy, budgeting, and saving, preparing them for long-term success as homeowners.
They are beyond thankful for what Habitat means to them and for the brighter, more stable future it is creating for their family
