Deborah Forbes

Deborah Forbes

Deborah is not only a success story for Lubbock, but the nation as a whole. Deborah was witness to the devastating events of Hurricane Katrina in 2006. The great storm left her homeless and she had nowhere to turn. Her journey to Lubbock started out somewhat rocky. Deborah can still look back and remember how shaky the plane ride to Texas was. She remembers the not so friendly faces of the Texas Sheriff Officers with holstered weapons. Deborah was a refugee in her own country. Like the rest of the people affected by Katrina, Deborah was sent to a temporary living facility where she was given aid. It was very difficult to secure living and employment in a place she knew nothing about. Being from New Orleans, in many ways West Texas appeared no different than the old west she had seen in movies. It was at this point Habitat for Humanity stepped in to offer their assistance. Deborah quickly found a job, and is still employed at the same place today. Her house from Habitat for Humanity, is often called one of the best maintained in the community. Deborah is living proof that losing everything will truly make you cherish what you have. She now also knows the satisfaction of giving back to her community. While she may not have much because she is still rebuilding her life, Deborah gives back what little she has. Although Louisiana was once her home, Deborah is thankful for the life she now lives in Texas and thankful for the aid she received from Habitat for Humanity.