A New Future Begins with Home for Two Local Educators

Meet Matthew and Michele – Two dedicated educators are starting a new chapter of stability and hope through Green Country Habitat’s Education Begins With Home program.

After decades in Houston, the couple moved to Tulsa in 2023 to be closer to family. For the past two years, Matthew has been a reading interventionist and Michele an educational aide at a local middle school, helping students overcome challenges. However, homeownership, a challenge of their own, always felt out of reach.

“We had gotten to the point where we were like, I guess we’re just renting until we’re dead,” they shared.

Everything changed when Michele saw a Tulsa Public Schools newsletter about a partnership with Green Country Habitat. Skeptical but curious, she attended a homebuyer orientation.

“I said, I don’t know, but I’m going to check it out,” Michele said. Matthew added, “I was like, wow, this could really work. This could happen.”

After their application was approved, they completed Habitat’s homebuyer education classes, particularly the money management lessons. Now moved in, the couple reflects on the community support they witnessed in Houston after hurricanes and floods and say they felt the same support in the volunteers, sponsors, and construction teams who built their home.

“When you know there’s no hope of owning a home and your choices are limited, that’s devastating. It’s humbling that so many people are willing to help,” Michele said.

Congratulations, Matthew and Michele—and special thanks to MidFirst Bank for providing an affordable mortgage to make this dream possible.

Habitat believes that everyone deserves a place to call home. Apply or share our home purchasing opportunity with others: