SUBSCRIBE & WIN! Sign up for the Daily CHAT News Today Newsletter for a chance to win a $75 South Country Co-op gift card!

The Insko family move into their Habitat for Humanity home (Photo courtesy Habitat for Humanity)

Stability at last: Habitat for Humanity helps mom of three into forever home

May 28, 2021 | 4:16 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Renee Insko has spent years trying to find affordable housing for her and her three daughters.

After moving 18 times in the last decade, the Insko family now has a place to call home.

Renee’s oldest daughter Kaytlynn says it’s amazing to finally be grounded.

“It’s awesome for my mom and my sisters cause then they don’t have to go through the same struggles I did as a kid moving every single year to a new house,” Kaytlynn said. “They just get to stick to one, they get to stick to the same school.”

The family’s new home is built by Habitat for Humanity.

The non-profit organization helps families build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership.

Amber Hanson with Habitat for Humanity is thrilled the three-year-long project is finally complete.

“Without community support, we really don’t get anywhere. Thank you and Medicine Hat has been gracious beyond belief and we’re so fortunate to have everybody,” Hanson said.

Renee says the application process was lengthy and time-consuming.

But after receiving the keys to her new home, she says it was all worth it.

“I’m still purchasing the home but for the down payment instead of that, I do 500 volunteer hours for my friends and family and that’s equity,” Renee said.

Renee will still pay a mortgage but it will be 30 percent of her income. She’s looking forward to finally decorating a place of her own.

“I’ve never actually taken time to put pictures anywhere so I’m excited to do that,” Renee said.

A home full of family photos won’t be the only first for the Insko’s. Renee’s younger daughters will finally have their own rooms.

The family plans to spend their first night in their new home tonight.