As a single mother on a relatively fixed salary, Jeannie Nettles thought homeownership in Nevada County might be out of reach. But Jeannie applied to become a Habitat Homeowner and now has been in her house on North Church Court for a dozen years.
Knowing that they had a safe, clean home that they could call their own made a huge difference to Jeannie and her daughter. And it has made a difference in the neighborhood. “This part of Grass Valley has had its ups and downs,” says Jeannie. “In our Habitat neighborhood we have done our part to help to stabilize the area.” Older people who had owned rentals in the area passed away and left the rentals to their families, many of whom didn’t live in the area. “With homeownership, pride comes in,” says Jeannie. “The Habitat homes have helped lift up the neighborhood. It’s been good for everyone.”
Jeannie says she’s Habitat’s biggest fan. “If I ever hear anyone passing on erroneous information about Habitat I correct them. Politely, of course.”
Donna Davenport, who has with her husband Ken, partnered with Jeannie for 12 years describes Jeannie as, “Positive, able, dynamic and driven.”
Jeannie makes a point of keeping her outdoor space landscaped and manicured. She values the home, and her neighbors, too. “I have had great support from my neighbors in times of need,” says Jeannie. “We all built our homes together and got to know each other.”
“I’m very thankful.”
