Mbalou Kaba understands the value of hard work. She loves her job as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Orchard Park Health Care Center in Littleton, but with four daughters to raise on her own, it’s a struggle to provide comfortable housing for her family. 

Mbalou lives in a southwest Denver apartment with her daughters, Diamilatou, Fanta, Minatagbe  and Fatoumata. The family is cramped in their two-bedroom apartment that has multiple maintenance problems. The neighborhood is unsafe and Mbalou has heard gun shots nearby. The complex also lacks a safe area for her children to play outdoors. The current rent is high for Mbalou’s salary and she has been forced to move in the past in order to try and find a more acceptable home for her children. 

Mbalou heard about Habitat for Humanity from a friend at work and decided to apply for a new home. She has lived in the Denver area for 14 years and is ready to make the commitment to becoming a home owner. “I want a better life for my kids, and I know I can do this”, she said.  

Mbalou speaks five languages (English, French, Mondando, Susu and Pluar) and plans to continue supporting Habitat for Humanity Metro Denver as a translator for future interviews and orientation. She will begin her sweat equity work in the summer of 2014 and looks forward to providing a larger, more stable and affordable home for her daughters.