TAMPA – When Becca Gaschler graduated from the University of Central Florida and returned home to Tampa, she was ready to kickstart her career. But like many young professionals, she found few affordable housing options, renting a room from a friend and then moving back in with her mom.
Becca, 25, had studied clinical psychology and political science, but was inspired by the craftsmanship of things her grandfather had built. She decided to try her hand at construction and soon found a job with Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough, steadily rising from apprentice to construction site foreperson to help build affordable homes for families who need them.
While working alongside volunteers and future homeowners, Becca saw firsthand the opportunity that homeownership creates. She asked herself: Could I become a Habitat homeowner, too?
“That was the biggest part for me, seeing the stability it brought to so many people, hearing their stories, meeting their kids and families, and seeing the widespread effects homeownership had for their communities,” Becca said. “Now, to finally get my own house. It’s like a dream for me, honestly.”
Like other Habitat homeowners, Becca put in long sweat equity hours, this time on her future home. One Habitat tradition that touched her: before the walls were finished, workers and volunteers wrote personal messages and good wishes on the framework – later hidden beneath the paint, but forever part of the house’s foundation.
“I think it’s pretty powerful, walking in and knowing all the love that went into it,” Becca said.
Tuesday, friends, family, coworkers, volunteers and Habitat leaders, along with representatives of major financial sponsor Publix Charities, joined Becca for a home dedication celebration. Becca was handed her keys and the crowd cheered, “Welcome home!” She got to tour her new East Tampa house, which has a yard for her rescue dog, Scout.
“Homeownership is a building block for strong and thriving communities,” said John Doran, executive director of Publix Charities. “We’re very proud to support this foundation for a better future.”
Through Habitat’s program, families invest hundreds of volunteer hours and get affordable mortgages that do not exceed 30% of their income.
“Home isn’t about how many people live under one roof or what that household looks like. It’s about safety, stability and dignity. Whether someone lives alone, with children, extended family, with roommates or a partner, every person deserves a safe, stable place to call home,” said Tina Forcier, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough. “That’s the mission of Habitat, alongside our generous community partners like Publix Charities, one home at a time.”
Becca agreed: “Habitat doesn’t exist without the help of the volunteers and sponsors. I’m just super grateful on all fronts.”
“My life is forever changed,” she said. “I can actually plan for my future now.”
