Toni Straight is a single mother of four children, Mackenzie (14), Cody (12), Jayden (6), and Mason (1½). She has lived in Des Moines since 1986 when she moved here with her mother from Kansas. Toni is currently a full time stay at home mom who is focused on caring for her son Cody who suffers from Down syndrome and spending time with her other young children, Jayden and Mason.
Originally, Toni and her children lived in a two bedroom house that suffered water damage which created mold and unacceptable living conditions. That living situation was also undesirable for someone with disabilities and special needs. Currently they live in Clive in a three bedroom apartment where most of her income goes to rent and utilities. The space is very cramped for five people, with little room for her children to study and play.
Several years ago Toni was searching for a better housing option and stumbled across Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity. After a lot of hard work she will finally realize her dream of homeownership. The kids are becoming eager to have their own space and are looking forward to helping take care of the day to day chores. Toni, however, is excited for the day she can finally say that the home at 1537 10th Street is theirs and that it will be a place she can watch her kids grow and succeed.