Michael and Kitty Jim were blindsided when doctors diagnosed their first-born child with autism, but were determined to give him the best life possible in their own country.
However, in 2006, life threw the Jims quite the unfair curve ball when their second child was also diagnosed with high-functioning autism. Knowing their family needed all the support they could get, they packed up everything and moved to Canada, settling in a tiny, one bedroom basement apartment in Scarborough where they shared a kitchen and bathroom with two neighbours.
It was all they could afford. Michael spent his days working at a supermarket while Kitty stayed at home in the drafty, mice-infested dwelling caring for their kids.
Wanting a better tomorrow for their children, they applied to Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area and were selected to benefit from a new home. One with a yard, their own kitchen, and space to entertain other parents and children from their autism support group.
Stories like this one featured on the Habitat for Humanity GTA website are why Right at Home Realty has been supporting the non-profit organization for the past 10 years. During that time, the Toronto office has donated more than $500,000 to Habitat for Humanity GTA and contributed hundreds of volunteer hours to ensure families achieve the stability of homeownership. With support from Right at Home Realty, families living in overcrowded, unsafe, or unaffordable living conditions are able to become first-time homeowners.
“Over the past 10 years, supporting Habitat for Humanity, our REALTORS® have seen the impact of our work in action,” said Howard Drukarsh, co-founder and broker of Right at Home Realty who is also a former member of Habitat for Humanity GTA’s advisory council. “Not only financially, but also through volunteering on build sites, attending home dedications, and connecting with the families that are becoming Habitat homeowners. For a real estate brokerage, the tie-in to this charity is an excellent match for us, and we look forward to continue our partnership with Habitat for Humanity for many more years.”
The 4,100 REALTORS® with Right at Home Realty are able to easily donate money to the cause following each transaction they make.
“We are proud to partner with companies like Right at Home Realty who understand what affordable homeownership means to families in need of decent, affordable housing,” states the Habitat for Humanity GTA website. “Together, we are able to give a hand-up to more Habitat families so they can build brighter futures for themselves and their children.”
