Stronger Together: Stories of Homes and Hope

Restoring Faith and Stability:

Sabastain's Story

For many, the path toward stability is a long and winding road of obstacles and tribulations. For Sebastian, after years of struggling through a cycle of addiction and incarceration, he knew he needed a change. With the help of Joshua House Men’s Center and their partnership with Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter, he was able to find a fresh start, discovering not only employment but a supportive community.

At just 23 years old, Sebastian has grown to overcome struggles that began in his youth. “I grew up drinking,” He shared. “At the Age of 12 I started drinking, partying, and all that. Had my son at 17. Along the way, I was getting incarcerated due to my drinking. I caught another case that was going to send me back to prison. And I was tired of it, going to prison, for sure. I was tired of going to jail.”

That’s when he decided to get help. He asked for a program, one that could help overcome the struggles he was facing. Soon, he was transferred to Joshua House, a faith-based recovery program that provides structure, guidance, and support to men struggling with addiction.

“One of the biggest challenges was my anger, which I still struggle with, but I’ve got a much better grip on it now than I did back then.” He admitted. Sebastian spoke of his growth with the program, and how slowly but surely, it helped him right the wrong habits that he had developed throughout his youth. “I would say it has helped me emotionally because we are a faith-based program. So I've learned to, put all my worries over to the trust of God. And, put it in his hands because I know he will provide.”

Before coming to Joshua House, Sebastian had some exposure to faith, but never deeply engaged with it. “I always believed a little bit, but I never believed the way I do now.” That transition, he reflected, came easier to him than he expected. “It wasn’t something I had to force and spend a lot of time trying to understand- it just came.”

A central part of his journey has been his time at the Habitat ReStore, where he has found not only work but a sense of belonging. He had previously engaged with Habitat Yuba/Sutter years earlier, participating in the YouthBuild program. When he arrived at Joshua House and sought work placement, he already had Habitat in mind. “I wanted to get a job here, and then all of a sudden, I heard that they wanted me. It just kind of worked out.”

This opportunity was made possible the partnership between Joshua House and Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter, providing individuals in recovery with stable employment, on the job training, and a path toward reintegrating into the workforce. At the ReStore, Sebastian has taken on a range of responsibilities, including organizing inventory, assisting customers, and pricing items. More than just gaining work experience, he’s found a sense of community.

“Now, after almost a year, it almost feels like a family.” He credits his co-workers with keeping him motivated. “They were a big encouragement to my program, to my work, to everything. If they weren’t here to guide me and direct me sometimes, I don’t know if I’d still be here.”

His work at the ReStore has not gone unnoticed. After his graduation from Joshua House, Sebastian has already secured a job at the ReStore post-program. “When I found out, I was really excited because I wanted to work here. Without this place, I don’t know if I’d be sober or clean. This place has made a big impact, and I want to give back to it.”

Since October 19th, 2023, he has remained sober, a milestone he once thought was impossible. For anyone struggling with addiction, his advice is simple. “Give it a shot. If I can do it, I know they can do it. Take it one day at a time and don’t be too hard on yourself.”

The success of the partnership between Joshua House Men's Center and Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter highlights the impact of community-based programs that bridge recovery, employment, and long-term stability. Through hard work, faith, and the support of a caring community, Sebastian has built a new foundation for his future, one filled with possibility for himself and his family.

These accomplishments would not be possible without the support from our amazing community!

Standing Together for Affordable Housing at Advocacy Day

Our team was proud to participate in Advocacy Day, an initiative led by Habitat for Humanity California, where Habitat Affiliates from across the state gather in Sacramento for a day of joint action and unity. This annual event is an opportunity to amplify our collective voice, advocate for stronger housing policies, and reinforce the urgent need for affordable homeownership opportunities.

During the event, we had the privilege of meeting with key lawmakers and their teams, including the office of Assemblyman James Gallagher, to discuss the challenges and opportunities in affordable housing. We were also joined by representatives from Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento, strengthening our regional advocacy efforts. Together, we shared powerful stories that highlight how stable, affordable housing transforms lives, helping families build generational wealth, security, and brighter futures.

By engaging directly with policymakers, we continue to push for more effective housing solutions that will benefit families across California. We are incredibly gratified to stand alongside so many passionate advocates from communities throughout our great state, all working toward the shared goal of creating lasting change.

Advocacy is a critical part of our mission, and we are committed to ensuring that safe, affordable housing remains a priority for decision-makers at all levels. Thank you to everyone who supports our efforts. Together, we are building a better future for families in need.

Building Hope Beyond Borders: Executive Build in Mexico

This month, our CEO, Joseph Hale, traveled to Mexico City alongside executive directors from U.S. Habitat affiliates, partnering with Habitat for Humanity Mexico to build homes and strengthen our international collaboration.

Together, they worked on home construction projects, fostering not just hope for families in need but also reinforcing the bond between Habitat affiliates worldwide. With 43.9% of Mexico’s population living in poverty and 1 in 4 families facing housing insecurity, the need for safe, permanent homes is more urgent than ever.

We return from this experience with a global perspective and a renewed commitment to building homes and hope right here in our own community. Together, we can change the world, one house, one family at a time!

See More Photos Here!

Announcing our free Pre-Purchase Homeownership Counseling Class

Our Family Services Department is excited to announce a free Pre-Purchase Housing Class, designed to help individuals and families take the next step toward homeownership.

This class will provide essential financial literacy education, covering topics such as budgeting, credit improvement, and mortgage readiness. Participants will gain valuable insights into managing their finances, building strong credit, and understanding the responsibilities of homeownership—all crucial steps in achieving long-term housing stability.

For many in our community, homeownership may feel out of reach. However, through education and preparation, individuals can build the foundation for a secure and sustainable future. This class is especially beneficial for those who have experienced housing insecurity and are looking to transition into permanent, affordable housing.

By offering this free educational opportunity, Habitat for Humanity Yuba Sutter continues its mission of empowering individuals with the tools and knowledge needed to become successful homeowners.

We are offering two sessions of this class next month.

March 11th, 12:00pm-1:30pm

March 12th, 6:00pm-7:30pm

916 Plumas St, Yuba City

We encourage anyone interested in learning more about the home-buying process to take advantage of this valuable resource. For more information or to register, clink on the link below.

RESGISTER HERE

Spreading Love at Prosperity Village

Earlier this month, residents of Prosperity Village, one of our Permanent Supportive Housing communities, gathered for a heartwarming Valentine’s Day Social filled with laughter, friendship, and festive treats. Events like these help foster a sense of belonging and connection, reinforcing that a home is more than shelter, it’s a community where love and support grow.

At Habitat for Humanity Yuba Sutter, we are committed to providing stable housing for those in need, with the belief that everyone deserves a safe place to call home. These gatherings remind us of the transformative power of housing in bringing people together and creating brighter futures.

Gwen Ford Honored for Black History Month

This month, our incredible Board Member Gwen Ford was honored by the Sutter County Board of Supervisors in recognition of Black History Month!

Gwen’s tireless dedication to our community shines through her work with Connecting Cultures Collaborative (CCC), an organization committed to fostering cultural understanding and growth. Through her leadership, CCC continues to enrich our community by celebrating diversity and promoting meaningful connections among people of all backgrounds.

We are so proud to have Gwen as part of our Habitat for Humanity Yuba Sutter family! Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved recognition!

Upcoming ReStore Sale!

Support Us!

Through our Cars for Homes Program, you can donate your old car, boat, motorcycle, RV, or other vehicle to help build homes for local families in need. We accept all vehicles whether they are running or not and towing is completely FREE. Just be sure to mention that your donation is intended for our Yuba/Sutter Habitat location, so we can receive the full benefit of your support!

Shopping at our ReStore is one of the simplest ways to support our mission, because every dollar spent in-store goes towards Habitat's mission of building up our community. We're constantly getting new items in each day, so be sure to come in or check out our Facebook page to stay updated on new arrivals.

Restore your space while also restoring your community by signing up for a Harmony Village Storage Unit today! Located at 4228 Sawtelle Ave (off of Highway 99) in Yuba City, these units provide secure, affordable storage solutions in a variety of sizes. Better yet, all proceeds from these affordable stoage units benefit our community by supporting Habitat's mission. Call 530-674-0201 to reserve your space today!