Habitat for Humanity 

For Roman Kadi and her family, homeownership is no longer a distant goal. It is a front door that now opens daily to stability, space, and a future they can finally plan after years of hard work and uncertainty. 

After qualifying through Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity, the Edmond family recently received the keys to their home, signing off on a 30-year loan to a brand-new, energy-efficient home, built not as a handout, but as a partnership grounded in perseverance. 

“It feels very good,” Roman said. “Seeing my children comfortable and happy reminds me why I worked so hard in the first place. We always wanted to buy a house for our kids to call home and grow together, but due to some life difficulties, we couldn’t afford to do so.” 

Those difficulties included a season when both Roman and her husband were injured and unable to work. The pause forced the family to adjust their plans, but not abandon them. “We stayed focused,” she said. “Glory to God that time has come, and we couldn’t be any happier.” 

At Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity, families like Roman’s are selected through a detailed application process that evaluates three core factors: the need for safe, affordable housing, the ability to repay a 30-year conventional mortgage, and a willingness to partner with Habitat through sweat equity. 

Applicants must meet income guidelines, demonstrate stable employment, and complete 100 volunteer hours helping build homes or supporting Habitat programs. The homes are sold at cost, require no down payment, and are designed to keep long-term expenses manageable. 

“Roman applied just like every other Habitat family,” said Ann Felton Gilliland, chair and CEO of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity. “Her need for a larger affordable home, her dedication to her family, her steady work history, and her commitment to the process really stood out.” 

Gilliland said stories like Roman’s reflect a broader housing challenge facing working families. “We’re seeing more families than ever who are working hard, playing by the rules and still finding themselves priced out of the traditional housing market because there simply isn’t enough affordable housing available,” she said. 

“When families like Roman’s can’t access affordable homeownership, it affects far more than just where they live. It touches their health, their children’s education, and their ability to build long-term stability and generational wealth.” 

For Roman, that stability is already taking shape. The new home means space to study, play, and grow, and the chance to build routines that once felt out of reach. “It brings a strong sense of stability, happiness, and excitement,” she said. “We can finally plan long-term and make the home truly ours.” 

The moment they revealed the house to their children was unforgettable. “At first, they were quiet because of all the cameras,” Roman said. “But the next day, they ran from room to room, laughing and imagining how they would make it their own. They’re so excited about the backyard, the garage, and having their own rooms.” 

Roman’s journey to this moment is also tied to her career with Edmond Public Schools, where she has built a reputation for faithful, consistent work. “I’ve put a lot of hard work into my career,” she said. “Edmond Public Schools has given me opportunities to grow, and I’m very grateful to be part of the team. I love my Washington Irving family.” 

As Roman looks ahead, gratitude leads the way. “I sincerely thank Habitat for Humanity and the entire team,” she said. “This home has changed our lives.” For families in Edmond and beyond, it is a reminder that when community, opportunity, and determination meet, home becomes more than a place. It becomes a foundation. 

Learn more about Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity at cohfh.org.