Originally, Shirl Bradford was renting an apartment in Des Moines for her and her three children, Takia, Markese, and Lamarkese. Even though Shirl was maintaining a steady job at Mosaic, rent was extremely expensive and she knew that there had to be a better option for her family. That is where the Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity came into the picture. After she found out she was going to be able to purchase her own home, Shirl and her three children moved in with her mother to prepare for the big move into their new Habitat home.
Even though the Bradford family currently enjoys living close to their family, seven people in a three bedroom house is just too crowded and they are relieved to know they will soon have a home of their own. Besides, their new home is located close to grandma’s house so they will have plenty of opportunities to visit. Another advantage to the home location is that it means the kids will not even have to change schools from King Elementary where the currently attend.
As a single mother, Shirl Bradford definitely knows how important her children’s futures are and by owning her own home she is helping to give them something to call their own as well as giving them more space to learn and grow. Having a child with a disability is a special concern for her and she is also excited to be able to provide a safe and nurturing environment for her son.
Moving into their new home during the Holiday Season is proving to be quite hectic, but Shirl knows it will all be worth it in the end. What could be better than having your family together for their first Christmas in their own home?