In Chisago City, Minnesota, Aliesha Larson faced a daunting challenge as a single mother living with three of her children. Living with her daughter Ali, who uses a wheelchair, and her two sons in a cramped two-bedroom rental was becoming increasingly difficult. The multi-level home posed significant mobility issues for her daughter, especially since the walls were unsuitable for installing a chair lift. Aliesha carried Ali up and down the stairs at least twice daily, a physically demanding and emotionally taxing task.

The situation at their rental was less than ideal. With five family members living in a limited space, privacy was a luxury they could not afford. Aliesha shared a room with her daughter while her sons slept in separate areas. The lack of parking added to their struggles, especially during harsh Minnesota winters when they had to park at a nearby Walmart and rely on rides back to their home.

Realizing the urgent need for a more suitable living environment, Aliesha took matters into her own hands. She conducted her research for a new home, focusing on finding a "rambler," a single-level dwelling that would provide easier access for her daughter. With her rental lease nearing expiration, time was of the essence.

Aliesha had previously been on the waiting list for the USDA Rural Development's Single Family Housing 502 Direct Loan Program. Once she communicated her urgent situation to the USDA, Loan Specialist Carol Wimmer jumped into action. Thanks to their swift response, Aliesha was pulled off the waitlist, and Rural Development expedited the loan process to ensure she could secure a new home before her lease expired.

"We were able to move along very quickly to try and get her into her new home before their lease was up," Carol said.

The results were life-changing. Aliesha's new home is a welcoming single-level structure that has transformed their daily lives. With only one step to enter the house, Ali can access the home independently, bringing relief and joy to Aliesha. The added space allows her daughter to move around freely, which was impossible in their previous rental. Aliesha is already noticing improvements in her daughter's mobility and confidence.

Furthermore, the new home features a wider driveway and a spacious three-car garage, providing ample room for her daughter's wheelchair and trike alongside their vehicles—something they desperately needed.  

Reflecting on the journey, Aliesha expressed her immense gratitude for the support from USDA.

"Carol took so much time to help me, and I cannot say enough good things about her," Aliesha shared. "Rural Development improved our lives in inconceivable ways by making homeownership possible when it otherwise wouldn't have been."

Thanks to Rural Development's Single Family Housing 502 Direct Loan Program, Aliesha and her family have found a place to live and a home that meets their needs and enhances their quality of life. Aliesha's story is a testament to how Rural Development can make all the difference for families facing challenging circumstances.