A Home and Heart Full of Joy
Ilangi Family Moves from Rent to Own
Joy and pride beamed from the face of Atumbe Ilangi as he shared the joyous story of his recent housing milestone. The Ilangi Family came to the United States as refugees from the Republic of Congo in Central Africa in 2019. They are joined also by Atumbe’s mother, and his brother who arrived in Cleveland before him. “I am so happy to share my home with my family and the people we know,” expresses Atumbe, grinning ear-to-ear.
‘Hard work’ does not quite do justice in describing the long hours, determination and work ethic Atumbe has demonstrated to create stability for his family here in the States. He and his wife are the busy parents of seven children (four pictured), spanning ages 5 to 21 years old. After fleeing their home country and abrupt resettlement transition, Atumbe started working full time- including weekends - and studying to learn English at The Hope Center.
During this season, The Hope Center, worked together with Good Neighbors & Co (BHITC’s housing division) to see that the Ilangis resided in a Building Hope in the City (BHITC) rental property. “We know the heart of God is for the provision of His children,” says Becky O’Donnell, Director of Refugee and Immigrant Ministries. “Providing quality, affordable housing for the people we serve at below-market rates means hard-working families like the Ilangis can focus on the demands of resettlement, cultural adjustment, and fulfilling dreams for their future. Your family home is more than a place to live; it is the place you build your life.”
With great fervor and motivation Atumbe and his family have done just that! After staying in a BHITC rental home for a season, Atumbe’s perseverance and fortitude has paid off. He is now a homeowner! This success is celebrated and backed by his supportive community, and Atumbe would be the first to tell you that he is grateful for volunteer refugee mentor and friend Tony Gusich. “Atumbe and his family continually welcome me and are so appreciative of anything I assist them with,” says Gusich. “It is a great accomplishment for this family to have earned and saved enough to buy a house!” A once-refugee family becoming economically sustainable does not happen overnight, and is not possible without the reliability and dedication of servants like Tony giving of their time and friendship.
Atumbe continues coming to The Hope Center to improve his English language skills with other students and is excited to share this victory with those around him. His kids are making friends with other children in their new neighborhood, and the Ilangi family is thrilled to be in their new home before the upcoming school year. In the same way that a home provides a launching pad of stability for us to build our lives upon, the never changing love of God is the same yesterday, today and forever and is always available to us. We thank God that He is a merciful Father, full of good gifts for His children. “Now if God so clothes the grass of the field which is here today and thrown in the fire tomorrow, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? – Jesus, Matthew 6:30”
