When Martina set out to find a new home for her family of three in 2023, she wasn’t just searching for a roof over their heads – she was searching for community.
Martina wanted a place where her 9-year-old daughter, Taniyah, who is homeschooled, could connect with others, build friendships and grow socially. She especially wanted her daughter to be surrounded by diversity.
“It was important to me that she be around people who don’t look like her, people who practice different cultures and speak different languages,” Martina said. “I also wanted to be sure she would be in a community she enjoyed, one that was fun.”
They found all of that at National CORE’s The Residences of Diamond Hill in Fort Worth, Texas that has over 6 recognized languages and various cultures and customs.
Hope through Housing’s free after-school programing quickly became a lifeline – offering mentorship, homework help, academic enrichment and opportunities for personal growth. More than that, it provides a safe, welcoming space where children like Taniyah can succeed.
Taniyah, full of curiosity and energy, blossoms when she’s with others. The after-school program gave her a place to be herself – a space to grow, play and learn alongside peers from all backgrounds. Studies show that early exposure to cultural diversity builds empathy and enhances social development.
“I love this program because it’s a safe place where Taniyah can learn from other people,” Martina said. “And she feels like she can be herself.”
The newly opened Eric Dickerson Learning Center expands the community’s offerings even further. With a focus on academic support, hands-on STEAM activities, fitness and nutrition education and outlets for creativity, the center provides holistic development for children and youth. It strengthens ties between home and school, empowering children and families to succeed together.
Since Martina’s family moved in, Hope through Housing’s programming has become a central part of their lives. When Taniyah isn’t volunteering at events hosted by Services Coordinator Reniqua Mayes, she is jotting down ideas for future opportunities.
“She’s an amazing young citizen,” Reniqua says. “She’s always the first one at any event, always eager to help and always brightening the room with her presence.”
For Martina’s family, Diamond Hill is more than affordable housing, it’s where Taniyah is becoming her best self: confident, compassionate and full of promise.