Colorado County Habitat for Humanity celebrates new homeowner

Colorado County Habitat for Humanity celebrated a house blessing ceremony May 13 for new homeowner Brianna Washington.

Washington, a sixth-grade math teacher, received blessings over her new home during a ceremony officiated by Pastor Wes Cogburn.

Family members, friends, Habitat volunteers, board members and community supporters gathered to celebrate Washington’s journey to affordable homeownership.

“Through this program, I was privileged to meet extraordinary individuals whose dedication to service left a lasting impression on me,” Washington said. “I am eternally grateful to my family, friends and colleagues who stood beside me, offering both support and volunteer hours.”

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas Texas State Chapter helped finance and build the home.

“The Alleyton house was Texas CDA’s 11th home to build, and in 2026 our focus is essential repair,” said Paula Frnka, state chairman for Habitat for Humanity. “We work with Habitat to build simple, affordable homes for economically disadvantaged families so they can have a better environment in which to raise their families.”

Reginald Smallwood, president of the board for Colorado County Habitat for Humanity, praised Washington’s dedication and commitment.

“Brianna’s dedication to her students and her perseverance throughout this process truly embodies the spirit of Habitat for Humanity,” Smallwood said. “As a teacher who qualified for the program, we are helping educators stay and thrive in our rural community while supporting our children — our future.”

AL&M Building Supplies also supported the project.

“AL&M Building Supplies has been part of this community since 1891, and one thing has never changed: Strong communities are built one home at a time,” said Alison Korell of AL&M Building Supplies. “Mark and I are proud to be part of Habitat for Humanity and the incredible work being done to strengthen our community.”

Columbus High School teacher Lyndsay Schobel attended the celebration and presented Washington with a planter filled with herbs and vegetables created by the CHS Garden Club.

“The CHS Garden Club was started this year by students who came to me wanting to begin a gardening club,” Schobel said. “We decided to make planters for Habitat homeowners as they move into their homes. We hope to expand our philanthropic efforts next year to include light landscaping and yard maintenance for the elderly and disabled.”

Colorado County Habitat for Humanity thanked volunteers, donors, churches and community partners for helping make the home possible.

For more information about Colorado County Habitat for Humanity or ways to support its mission, contact Executive Director Charmaine Katz at 979-732-5677 or email [email protected].