Clearwater Mother & Daughter Get First Home via Habitat for Humanity

Florencita Bernardez and her 9-year-old daughter Skylah will soon leave their one-bedroom apartment for a house of their own through Habitat for Humanity.

Bernardez, a paralegal at Bay Area Legal Services, moved to Florida from New York with Skylah seeking better opportunities. She holds a bachelor's degree from New York City College of Technology. The cramped apartment has forced sacrifices and left them with little privacy as Skylah grows.

"My life is about to change," Bernardez said upon learning she was accepted into the program. She looks forward to Skylah having her own space and to building what she envisions as a blessed, happy home.

Skylah enjoys singing, dancing, reading, swimming, board games, arts and crafts, and baking. As a single parent, Bernardez draws strength from her daughter's trust.

The new Clearwater home marks a turning point for the family, giving them the stability and space they've lacked.