Licensed Practical Nurse and Son Celebrate Habitat Homeownership

For six years, Brandi P. and her teenage son, Bryton J., shared a one-bedroom apartment so he could attend a school district she believed would support his education.

Brandi, a licensed practical nurse at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, wanted to become a homeowner but was unsure whether purchasing a home was financially possible. That changed when she applied to the Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity (COHFH) New Home Construction program.

After being accepted, Brandi completed her homebuyer partnership requirements in about four months. Her work included 100 hours of sweat equity helping build her home and the homes of other Habitat families.

On Aug. 29, 2024, Brandi and Bryton joined COHFH staff and community members for a dedication celebration at their new home in Spencer, Oklahoma.

“I’m so thankful for all 4,000 keys,” Brandi said, laughing through happy tears after COHFH Chair/CEO Ann Felton Gilliland presented her with the keys to her new house. “I’m thankful to everyone in the room!”

In her Habitat application, Brandi wrote that she previously had rented a two-bedroom apartment. As rental prices continued to rise, however, she and Bryton moved into a one-bedroom apartment.

“For the past six years, this is how my son and I have been living,” Brandi wrote. “Can you imagine bringing friends over to play and the living room is your bedroom? I was determined to show my son I could buy a home because I know God has something so much greater for me waiting on the horizon.”

Their new three-bedroom home with a two-car garage gave Brandi and Bryton the space Brandi had worked to provide for her family.

“I am so glad God has blessed us with a home of our own!” Brandi said.

Brandi P., a licensed practical nurse at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, and her son, Bryton J., celebrate purchasing their new Central Oklahoma Habitat home in Spencer, Oklahoma.