Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga’s Women Build Brunch raised over $130,000 this year to build the home of Emma, a great-grandmother and Army veteran.

The Women Build Brunch, which was held on May 1, was the 12th fundraiser of its kind and featured a keynote from Natosha Reid Rice, Habitat International’s vice president of Housing Opportunities and Mission Engagement.

This Habitat fundraiser was chaired by Daisy Maurya-Ballard, business leader, entrepreneur and co-owner of WillowStreet Properties and MauryaBuilt, and included Nicole Brown as emcee.

Once construction is complete, Emma’s home will mark Habitat Chattanooga’s 31st Women Build home.

Over the years, Habitat Chattanooga’s women-led volunteers have built 30 homes, thanks to the generosity of event sponsors and donors.

“We’re beyond grateful for another successful Women Build event,” said Jens Christensen, Habitat Chattanooga’s CEO. “Emma’s personal journey and now her journey to becoming a Habitat Homeowner has been nothing short of inspirational, and it’s an honor to see her recognized and uplifted by her community.”

When Emma moves, she will have a zero percent interest 30-year mortgage allowing equity and financial security to be built.