EMPORIA, Virginia — After losing everything in a house fire, Barbara Wyche and her family faced more than two years of setbacks, uncertainty and perseverance. But on August 1, their journey took a joyful turn as they dedicated a safe, affordable home built in partnership with the Emporia-Greensville Fuller Center for Housing.

Here’s Barbara’s story—in her own words:

I want to sincerely thank the Emporia-Greensville Fuller Center for Housing for walking with me and my family throughout our journey to homeownership.

For many years, I dreamed of owning a safe, affordable home for my sons and me. Our journey was not easy. We lost everything in a house fire, experienced crowded living conditions, spent time in a motel, and faced serious health challenges that made an already difficult situation even harder.

Throughout it all, the Fuller Center stood beside us. They worked with me despite my health challenges, adjusted my sweat-equity schedule, and even allowed me to bring my three younger sons to the ReStore on Saturdays. My sons were proud to be part of the process, earning points through their academic achievements. It truly became a family accomplishment.

After two and a half years of challenges, perseverance and faith, my sons and I now have a safe, affordable place to call home. The Fuller Center experience has forever changed our lives and shown us that homeownership is possible, even when the road is difficult.

To every Fuller Center participant, I encourage you to stay committed and complete the program. The journey may not be easy, but it is well worth the wait.

Today, I give glory to God and heartfelt thanks to the Emporia-Greensville Fuller Center for Housing for helping make our dream of homeownership a reality.