Success Stories
Dumisha’s Story
Dumisha has lived in Wake County her entire life. With rising rent, Dumisha struggled to make ends meet and feared she would be forced out of the community she loves. After going through RALT’s application process, she was able to purchase a RALT home built specifically for those living at 50-80% of the area median income (AMI).
“I was a young single mother that worked two jobs and was in school most of my life. I left home at age 18 and started raising my son in the Chavis Heights public housing community.” she said. “I went from living in public housing to renting an apartment from a private owner, and now I have my own home, and it feels amazing.”
“The current housing market has made the homes unaffordable in southeast Raleigh. Through RALT, I was able to purchase a home in my community where I work and was born and raised,” said Binns. “It’s such a surreal feeling after renting for 30 years. I have accomplished a dream come true and I’m so proud of myself!”
Mr. Watson’s Story
At 62, Mr. Watson, a Raleigh native and Army veteran, achieved a lifelong dream: finally owning a home.
For Watson, who became RALT’s first homeowner, this home represents more than mere bricks and mortar—it epitomizes stability and personal triumph. Since moving in, Watson has not only decorated it with photographs of his loved ones and friends but he also used his carpentry skills to build a deck and sitting area in his backyard. This space now serves as a gathering spot for neighbors, fostering a sense of community pride and connection.
Watson’s journey highlights the profound impact of community land trusts in preserving affordability and fostering community ownership. Through RALT’s initiative, Watson was able to establish permanent roots in the same community that he grew up in and remains deeply connected.
