Rikesha Hale of Chickasaw, Alabama, always dreamt of owning a home to raise her family. A remote worker, Hale had grown tired of not having enough space for both. Despite no help from her financial institution of 15 years, she remained determined to find a solution. After her bank turned her down, she met with a mortgage broker – who shared it would take two years to qualify for financing. “I was so used to hearing no that I didn’t feel discouraged…something told me just to keep going,” says Hale.
At that point, her realtor referred Hale to Hope Credit Union. HOPE approved Hale’s mortgage and provided a $5,000 grant to assist with closing costs. Hale became a first time homebuyer in June of 2024. “It’s such a blessing. I really appreciate HOPE…for helping with everything during the process,” says Hale. “Having a home with more space, I can separate my work and personal life. I am devoting more time to family.”