Students at UD help build mother of 2 her own home through Habitat for Humanity

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — A mom and her daughters are receiving their first home thanks to students at the University of Dayton.

The Flyer Nation Build Program helped build the home in Edgemont, coming after many months of hard work for Aliciah Jackson and her family.

“I feel so amazing like it’s just like being baptized all over I can’t believe it. It’s really mine, I signed papers today to be a homeowner,” said Jackson.

Jackson is now officially a homeowner, and through Habitat for Humanity, has a zero percent interest mortgage.

For the last two years, new business students at the University of Dayton have spent their first weekend on campus framing walls for habitat houses.

“Through this collaboration, our students don’t just hammer nails. They develop relationships, work on team building skills, and come to understand many of the complexities of affordable housing, economic disparities, and community development,” said Dr. Trevor Collier, UD School of Business Administration dean.

Not only did local students and community members help build the house, but so did its owner.

“I came down here every other Saturday and volunteered on my own house. It’s a very great experience. I’ve never built a home so I can honestly say I helped build my own home,” said Jackson.

The family says they’re grateful for their new place.

“We just want to say we thank you all for coming out here and putting us in this beautiful home. Amen,” said Kiariah and Ja-Naye Jackson.

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