“My house will be filled with love and it will be mine!”
Amarilys Olavarria is a hardworking single mother determined to create a better future for herself and her 5-year-old daughter, Nilani. As a billing specialist at the North Pinellas Children’s Medical Center, Amarilys balances the demands of her career while raising her daughter. “Nilani and I are each other’s best friends,” Amarilys shares. “We love to laugh, make funny faces, and dance around together. We’re very affectionate—we always tell each other how much we love each other and give lots of hugs and kisses.”
Currently, Amarilys and Nilani are staying with her mother, sharing a room as they work toward their dream of having a home of their own. “The most difficult part for me has been not having my own place and sharing a room with my daughter,” Amarilys admits. “I cried many nights, but after a few weeks, I realized how grateful I am for this time to save money and be less stressed.” This challenging situation has fueled Amarilys’ desire for a space where her daughter can thrive and grow independently.
When Amarilys received the news that she had been accepted into the Habitat for Humanity program, it was an unforgettable moment. “My first thought was, ‘Thank you, God.’ It was an emotional night filled with happiness and anxiety,” she recalls. So far, her experiences with sweat equity have been eye-opening. “Learning about homeownership has made me realize it’s not the same as renting. I’m excited to work on the build sites, installing windows, painting, and landscaping—skills I’ll carry with me when I get my own home.”
Amarilys imagines a joyful future in her Habitat home. “I picture my daughter playing in the yard, running around our living room, and enjoying her own bedroom,” she says with excitement. One of the moments she’s most looking forward to is seeing Nilani’s reaction to her new room. “I can’t wait to see her face when she opens her door and finds it filled with all her favorite toys.” For Amarilys, this home will be more than just a house—it will be a place of love and security. “My house will be filled with love, and it will be mine,” she says proudly.
Amarilys’ journey with Habitat for Humanity is a testament to the life-changing impact of stable housing. She encourages others to support the mission of Habitat, knowing firsthand the difference it can make. “This program is essential. It helps families learn healthy financial habits, understand their credit, and prepare for the future,” she explains. If you feel inspired by Amarilys’ story, consider donating to Habitat for Humanity by visiting our Donate Page. Your contribution can help more families like Amarilys and Nilani build a future filled with hope, security, and love. Together, we can make a lasting impact—one home at a time.
