Daniel and Sybonay dreamed of a home where their three kids–ranging from middle school to toddlers–could play and learn. Having both come from childhoods with little stability and support, they wanted this for their growing family (they recently announced a 4th child is on the way.) They didn’t know how they would make this dream come true until they found San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity.
“When we applied, I really didn’t have an idea of what would come about from the program,” said Daniel…“ we purchased a home that I never would’ve thought in a million years we would have gotten. It’s such a blessing and it exceeded anything we ever dreamed of.”
“It’s amazing to see the kids enjoy it more than us, we noticed a great difference in their communication, and the way they interact now.”
When Daniel and Sybonay saw their finished home for the first time they were pleasantly surprised and quickly began plans for their own “blank canvas”to create a cozy and happy environment for their kids. The kids now enjoy a big backyard with a play structure they can run around in, multiple bedrooms to give them more space and privacy and a safe neighborhood where they can grow and be a part of a good community.
“We don’t have to pause our lives for an emergency or a leak anymore,” said Sybonay, who was previously the manager of their prior complex and had to stop family plans to deal with the issues around the building. “It’s amazing to see the kids enjoy it more than us, we noticed a great difference in their communication, and the way they interact now.”
Sybonay and Daniel also enjoy the benefits of the bigger space such as decorating for holidays, having people over and making work easier. Before moving into their Habitat house, Sybonay recalls having to work with the kids playing and talking nearby which made things quite “restrictive.” However, there’s now enough space for both her to work from home and for her kids to play without getting in the way of each other – making life more enjoyable for everyone.
Staying true to their hardworking nature Daniel and Sybonay quickly completed their sweat equity hours, which Daniel says gave him a lot more confidence about being a homeowner. He gained a lot of knowledge of how to make changes and build things in the home that he sees fit. They both had an impactful volunteer experience and thank all those who have volunteered or donated to their home.
“I wanna say thank you to all the volunteers for San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity,” said Sybonay. “For all your dedication and all the hours that you put in for our family and for the families that will be impacted. Your time and sweat into this home isn’t in vain. We are loving it, our children are loving it, and we’re just grateful from the bottom of our hearts.”