Redmond Family’s New Home Win-Win for All

Several groups came together Thursday to make one Redmond family’s dream a reality, while also helping a group of at-risk teenagers get back on track in life. Several non-profit organizations built and donated a home for one family who they thought deserved it most.

Amanda Ward held the keys to her brand new house high, while a crowd cheered her on.

Ward and her children, Kylee and Kalvin, are finally home, after months of waiting

“I honestly don’t know what to say,” Ward told the crowd. “This is one of the happiest days of my life, and I want to thank everyone for being here.”

After dealing with years of financial troubles and bouncing from one friend’s house to the next, Ward applied for the home through “First Story,” an organization that helps low-income families.

After having a financial background check and writing an essay, Ward said she was amazed to be picked, and change her children’s lives.

“They are just so excited, and that has been the happiest part for me, is seeing how happy they are,” said Ward.

“It’s awesome,” said Kylee.

“I’m really excited,” Kalvin added. “I haven’t had my own room for a long time, so I’m just so happy.”

Hayden Homes and the nonprofit Heart of Oregon Corps Youthbuild, built the house.

Many of the teens have troubled pasts, and through Heart of Oregon Corps, they can study to get their GEDs and learn some valuable life skills.

“My favorite thing about is just the smiles,” member Eric Cook said. “The happiness that is sewn into the hearts of all of these people is just amazing.”

Cook installed drywall and helped frame and paint the new home.

“I was directed toward this group, and they said it would be a really good opportunity for me — and it really has been,” Cook said. “I’ve been able to turn my life around and be a good person in society, instead of getting into trouble all the time.”

The non-profit organizations and the Ward family believe the home is a win-win for everyone.

“They are just an amazing group of young men and women, and it’s just amazing to see how the whole thing just comes together,” Ward said. “It helps give them a better future — and us, gives us a better future.”

The Ward family had a zero down payment and now has a zero-interest 30 year-home loan.