Roseanna Hamilton dreams of one day teaching others to become artists. When she graduates from Cameron University with an art degree this May, she will be one step closer.
“Art is a passion that comes from your soul.” Roseanna said. “Everyone is an artist in some form or fashion.”
After facing a life-threating illness, Roseanna Hamilton found strength through her artistic ability and by continuing her education. The single mother of three credits OHFA with helping her to achieve her goals of earning a college degree and becoming an award-winning visual artist.
“Ten years ago I became ill and couldn’t work. I couldn’t support my family,” she said. Roseanna applied and was accepted into OHFA’s Housing Choice Voucher program.
“I have been blessed with a nice home in a good neighborhood and have been able to go back to school.”
During a rental inspection, one of OHFA’s field agents suggested to Roseanna that she apply for the Family Self-Sufficiency program. This way she would be able to continue her education and achieve her other goals of repairing her credit and buying a home.
“When I’ve been sick or things were out of my control, OHFA has been there for me. I am so thankful.”
This semester, Roseanna’s art was featured in a national art exhibition in Pittsburg, Kansas. She also participated in a week-long study abroad program in Europe.
Since she was a child observing the work of her father, a billboard artist, Roseanna has dreamed of becoming an artist herself. By helping her to set goals and to save money, OHFA’s Family Self Sufficiency program has helped her to reach this dream.
“Truly without the assistance from OHFA my art dream wouldn’t be within reach. My family has benefited very much from your care and resources that have made this possible. The world doesn’t accept those who are different from them. Having a life changing disablity makes people stand offish, but now I have a degree and new skill that I have great passion for and can do the rest of my life.”