Eric and Ariana are proud of where they are today. The couple previously applied to purchase a Habitat home and did not qualify. They continued to work hard, and the second time was the charm — they are excitedly getting ready to purchase their home in Escondido!

Ariana works in childcare resource services at the YMCA. She loves being able to help other families and the flexibility her job allows so she can spend time with her own young children. Eric works for Dexter Axle, a boat trailer manufacturer. He has been there since 2012 and appreciates the opportunities for growth within the company.

Education is important to the couple. Ariana holds two associate degrees and earned her bachelor’s degree in human development from Cal State San Marcos in 2019. Eric is currently attending Palomar College, working toward his associate degree as a Machinist.

Both Eric and Ariana’s parents migrated to the United States to give them better opportunities. This is all they want for their children, Axel (8 months) and Luz (2.5), to give them more than they had — educational opportunities, extracurricular activities, and support for their interests and goals. Axel has recently discovered a love for tummy time and enjoys watching “Hey Bear”. Luz is very communicative and already has an impressive vocabulary. She has shown an interest in soccer, loves doing hands-on activities, and reading at school where she attends an Early Head Start program.

Having a forever home is the most exciting part of this opportunity for Eric and Ariana. They see it as the foundation for all the success they wish for their children. They are thrilled to be able to provide the kids with a childhood home that they themselves never had, and to make all the memories together that having a home of their own will create.