From Surviving to Thriving: Sara’s Story

Housing instability can affect anyone—even those who are employed, determined, and working tirelessly to support their families. Sara Bean, a devoted mother balancing two jobs, was living proof that stability isn’t guaranteed by a paycheck.

After going through a divorce in 2018, Sara never imagined she’d find herself struggling to keep a roof over her daughters’ heads. With a desire to create a safe, stable home for them, she began searching for a place she could afford – quickly learning that one job wasn’t going to be enough.

Working two jobs took a toll—not just physically, but emotionally too. She spent her mornings working at a hospital and her evenings waitressing, often having little to no time to attend her daughters’ sporting events and school activities.

“I couldn’t afford to miss work because if I missed work, I wasn’t going to have money to pay rent or buy groceries,” Sara recalls. “It was always this constant struggle trying to figure out how I was going to juggle all of my expenses and still be able to show up for my kids.”

Despite her best efforts, Sara’s income still wasn’t enough to comfortably cover rent, utilities, and groceries. When reaching out for help, she was constantly being told to “budget better” and be more “financially responsible,” but the truth was that her limited income could only stretch so far.

In 2023, everything changed when Sara connected with Community Housing Network (CHN). Through CHN, she was able to purchase a beautifully rehabbed home in Macomb County. Though the process was long and tedious, she remained determined to make her dream of becoming a homeowner a reality.

Shortly after closing on the home, Sara landed a job with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services – a job she had sought for many years.

“I didn’t have to work two jobs anymore to still also not get by,” she said. “Community Housing Network has completely changed my life.”

Now, she has more time to spend with her two teenage daughters, Rebecca and Emily, and to do the things she loves such as cooking, baking and gardening.

Sara’s journey is one of strength, perseverance, and patience. It’s a stark reminder that a little help can go a long way!

Last year, CHN helped more than 17,000 people, investing $12.5 million into the community, so children, families, people with disabilities and other vulnerable populations can live in stable, dignified homes.

Sara Bean was awarded the 2025 Emmett Jones Memorial Award. Watch the video below to hear about her journey to homeownership!