ALLEYTON — Colorado County Habitat for Humanity proudly celebrated a special milestone on May 13, with a house blessing ceremony honoring its newest Habitat homeowner, Brianna Washington.
Washington, a dedicated sixth-grade math teacher, received blessings over her new home during the ceremony officiated by Pastor Wes Cog burn.
“Through this program, I was privileged to meet extraordinary individuals whose dedication to service left a lasting impression on me,” said Washington. “I am eternally grateful to my family, friends, and colleagues who stood beside me, offering both support and volunteer hours.”
Family, friends, Habitat volunteers, board members, and community supporters gathered to celebrate this meaningful occasion and Brianna’s journey to affordable homeownership.
The Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Texas State Chapter, helped build and fi nance Washington’s home.
“The Alleyton house was Texas CDA’s 11th home to build, and in 2026, our focus is essential repair,” said Paula Frnka, state chairman for Habitat for Humanity. “We work with Habitat to build simple, affordable homes for economically disadvantaged families so they can have a better environment in which to raise their families.”
“Brianna’s dedication to her students and her perseverance throughout this process truly embody the spirit of Habitat for Humanity,” said Reginald Smallwood, president of the board for Colorado County Habitat for Humanity.
"As a teacher who qualified for the program, we are helping educators stay and thrive in our rural community while supporting our children — our future.”
AL&M Building Supplies also shared its support for the project.
“AL&M Building Supplies has been part of this community since 1891, and one thing has never changed: strong communities are built one home at a time,” said Alison Korell of AL&M Building Supplies. “Mark and I are proud to be part of Habitat for Humanity and the incredible work being done to strengthen our community.”
Columbus High School teacher Lyndsay Schobel attended the celebration and presented Washington with a planter filled with fresh herbs and vegetables, created by the CHS Garden Club.
“The CHS Garden Club was started this year by students who came to me wanting to begin a gardening club,” said Schobel. “We decided to make planters for habitat homeowners as they move into their homes. We hope to expand our philanthropic efforts next year to include light landscaping and yard maintenance for the elderly and disabled.”
Colorado County Habitat for Humanity extends heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, donors, churches, and community partners whose support helped make this home possible. Their continued generosity allows habitat to provide safe and affordable housing opportunities for families throughout Colorado County.
For more information about Colorado County Habitat for Humanity or ways to support its mission, please contact: Colorado County Habitat for Humanity, Charmaine Katz, executive director at 979-732-5677 or email cchfh96@ gmail.com
Participating in the new homebuild blessing for Brianna Washington in Alleyton on May 13, were, from left, Michelle Hernandez, sixth grade paraprofessional; Phyllis Toliver, 6th Reading/ELAR; Gabby Young, seventh grade social studies; Brianna Washington, sixth grade math; Kelli Hickman, sixth grade ELR; and Lyndsay Schobel, high school science. Courtesy photo by Colorado County Habitat for Humanity
