Home Sweet Home!

Johneshia Kornegay and her son accepting a check for money saved through the Family Self-Sufficiency Program

There was cause for celebration in New Castle, Delaware during Homeownership Month. That's when Johneshia Kornegay and her ten-year-old son received keys to their very own townhome. It took Johneshia several years to do it, but thanks to HUD's Homeownership Choice Voucher and Family Self Sufficiency programs, she went to settlement on her home June 3, 2011. Through HUD's Family Self Sufficiency program (FSS), Johneshia was able to get a job and save some money to put down on her home. In fact, Johneshia received a check through the FSS program for the money she saved while working.

Johneshia shared the check with her son who carried it with great joy and pride. After all, he and his mother made the sacrifices together to save to make their dream come true. During her remarks, she talked about their sacrifices. She took a second job and her son gave up movies, special treats and Big Macs. She also thanked her grandmother for all of her support and encouragement, especially for reminding her on occasion that she didn't need that new dress or those new shoes so she could focus on saving up for her new home. The best part is that Johneshia and her son live about two blocks from Johneshia's parents' house. That makes it easier for them to visit back and forth as her son spends a lot of time with his grandparents.

HUD and county staff members were happy that four different HUD programs helped to make Johneshia's dream become a reality. The HOME American Dream Downpayment Initiative funds were also used for her downpayment and closing costs. Through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), the property on Jennings Court where Johneshia lives was targeted for rehabilitation. The home was purchased for $145,000 and was rehabbed with $52,000 in NSP funds. The sale price was $152,000.

Johneshia's son planting flowers in their backyard

HUD and New Castle County officials handing over keys to Johneshia

HUD's Regional Administrator Jane C. W. Vincent was on hand to congratulate Johneshia on her accomplishment. To celebrate the achievement, Johneshia, her family, the Homeownership Voucher staff and Vincent gathered to turn over the keys to the new homeowner, tour her home and help plant some flowers in her back yard. All agreed, it was home sweet home for the Kornegay family.