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Success Stories

Building Dreams, Changing Lives: Lori Bonifay’s Journey to Homeownership

John Ciccarelli
Homeownership
Lori Bonifay in front of her home

GREATFALLS, Mont., Oct. 27, 2024 – At the heart of Montana’s rural communities, USDA Rural Development, Montana is empowering individuals and families to transform their lives through programs like the Self-Help Housing 502 Direct Home Ownership Program. One such success story comes from Great Falls, where Lori Bonifay, a single mother of five, is building not only a home but a brighter future for her family.

“My story began when I came to Great Falls in 2011 with my five children,” Lori shares. “We had to leave a difficult situation in Billings, and my sister opened her home to us. By the end of that summer, I knew I wanted to make Great Falls our home.”

Lori’s journey to homeownership wasn’t easy. Like many families, she initially relied on government assistance to make ends meet. However, she was determined to build a stable future for her family. “I didn’t want to rely on assistance forever,” she recalls. Her introduction to the Self-Help Housing Program came through friends who were building their own homes in Black Eagle. Although she never imagined she could qualify for the program at the time, the seed was planted.

After enduring a series of personal challenges, including a temporary stay at the Great Falls Rescue Mission, Lori decided to take control of her future. In 2021, she enrolled in the First-Time Homebuyers class through NeighborWorks Great Falls, a critical step in her journey. “I wanted to form a plan,” she explains. She worked with a credit counselor and set tangible goals, including applying for the USDA 502 Direct Home Ownership Self-Help Housing Program.

In 2023, Lori and her children moved into their first home, marking a significant milestone. “It was the first big step that really changed everything for me,” she says proudly. Shortly after, she received a call from NeighborWorks, informing her that she had been accepted into the Self-Help Housing Program.

By May 2024, Lori and her fellow participants began building their homes, under the guidance of the NeighborWorks Great Falls construction team (funded via USDA Rural Development’s 523 Technical Assistance Program). “The building process has been amazing and hard work!” Lori exclaims. “I’ve learned how to frame walls and gained confidence in knowing how to succeed.” With six houses already standing and more underway, Lori’s dream of homeownership is becoming a reality.

For Lori, this program is more than just building a house—it’s about building a future. “This whole process has been a life-changer for me. I’ve learned new skills, met new people, and gained the confidence that I can accomplish what I set my mind to.”

Through USDA Rural Development’s Self-Help Housing and 502 Direct Home Ownership Programs, Lori and her family are now on the path to financial independence and long-term stability. “Thank you, USDA, for allowing me to be part of this special opportunity to change my stars,” Lori says. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the transformative impact of USDA’s programs in Montana.

Obligation Amount:
0
Year(s) of Obligation:
Congressional District:
  • Montana: District 2