Christina Patterson and her two boys were living in a shelter just a few years ago. Through Christina’s incredible courage and determination, and with support from Acts Housing, she closed on her first home in September 2019.
She first heard about Acts Housing’s programs through the City of Beloit’s Housing Authority, which provides programming and was assisting Christina in her housing challenges. From Reflecting on her experience, Patterson explained, “I had every obstacle in my way to home ownership and I did it. If I can do it, anyone can do it. It feels amazing, it just feels amazing.”
Christina’s two sons, ages 13 and 18, are the reason she was able to stay focused and make her dream come true: “You have to stay driven. I was driven for the two of them,” she explained.
Acts Housing has supported more than 2,500 families like Christina’s in becoming homeowners. In September 2019, Acts Housing brought services to Beloit with the launch of a five year initiative. Christina is the first trailblazing homeowner in Beloit and we are so grateful for her commitment.
At a launch event in September, Patterson was asked to speak to the community about her experience. For her, saying yes was a no brainer. She wants home ownership not just for herself but for her community: “I want to give back. I hope someone will read my story and know that they too can be a homeowner.”
Christina can be found in the evening and weekends working on her home. Cleaning, painting, demolition, you name it. Just as she was determined to own her own home, she is determined to make it a safe, cozy space for her family.
