In celebration of its 25th year building homes in Middlesex County, Middlesex Habitat for Humanity reached out to a family that was featured nine years ago in a Southside Sentinel story.
Liselle Morning’s family moved into its new home in 2016. This is Liselle’s story.
“In 2016, we were a family of six trying to hold it all together in a house that was falling apart,” Liselle Morning said. “The roof leaked. Black mold crept into the walls. I dreaded winter, not because of the cold, but because of the kerosene and the smell that filled our home.”
She continued, “It was hard on the kids, especially my oldest daughter, Cheyanne, who was living with bilateral Perthes disease, a rare condition that affected both of her hips. After each surgery, she couldn’t walk. We had to carry her to and from her room because there wasn’t enough space for a wheelchair.
“At the Habitat meeting, I saw how many families were in need. The room was full of stories, full of hope, and full of heartbreak. I felt overwhelmed and nearly slipped out unnoticed until Greg Chambers stopped me and said, ‘You deserve an opportunity just like every other candidate.’ That moment reminded me that I was worthy of hope. Jackie Wake had encouraged me to apply, and I trusted that God was going to make a way, and He did.
“We built our home and made lasting friendships along the way. I wrote scriptures on the beams as we worked, giving thanks with every nail.”
“The day we moved in, I flipped on the heat and cried. No more kerosene. No more cold floors. Just warmth, safety, and the beginning of something new.
“Today, our home is still filled with laughter, love, and life. It’s where my children grew into themselves. Cheyanne had her hip replacement a year after we moved in. With space to recover and a home that supported her healing, she graduated from high school and is now at Virginia Commonwealth University, finishing her bachelor’s degree in biology. She’s chasing her dream of becoming an anesthesiologist, and she’s nearly there.
“Kyle graduated from high school and works part-time at Food Lion while attending Rappahannock Community College to earn his associate’s degree in arts and science. He’s steady, focused, and building his future.
“Xavier, once the president of the Technology Student Association chapter in middle school, is now a freshman in high school. He’s into basketball, still active in the Technology Student Association, and has become a vivarium builder. Our home now includes vampire crabs, a shrimp aquarium in progress, and a crested gecko, all nurtured by his imagination.
“Kylina will graduate in 2026. She’s a member of the National Honor Society and served as class president during her freshman, sophomore, and junior years. Now, as a senior, she’s vice president of her class. She’s also the homecoming queen of Middlesex High and lieutenant governor of Division 12 of the Capital District Key Club. She’s pursuing a career in forensic psychology, and she leads with grace, intelligence and heart.
“And me? I went back to school. I earned my general certificate and associate’s degree in psychology and social work and currently work at Middlesex High School as a paraprofessional and am pursuing my bachelor’s degree to become a licensed special education teacher, not for recognition, but because I love kids.
Humanity
“I believe every child deserves someone who sees them clearly, who listens without judgment, and who shows up with patience and consistency. I’ve seen firsthand how trust and emotional safety can transform a child’s learning experience. Whether it’s helping a student find their voice, navigate a tough day, or celebrate a small victory, I’m there, because I know how much it matters.
“I do this work because someone once believed in me. And now, I get to pass that belief on to the next generation. I’ve taught my children to give back, to stay humble, and to appreciate all that God provides. We came from humble beginnings, and everything we have now is because of His grace. I owe it all to God and give Him the glory for what He has done in our lives.
“This home didn’t just shelter us, it gave us a future. It gave my children a safe place to dream, to heal, to become. It gave me the courage to grow, to serve, and to rise. And I will continue to give back and do my best to make an impact every single day.
“Our neighbors have become like family, an extra blessing we never expected. We share meals, laughter, and support. This community is part of our story and part of our healing. I’m forever grateful to Habitat for Humanity and every friend and stranger who helped us along the way. You didn’t just build a house. You built a legacy.”
Middlesex County Habitat for Humanity builds homes that transform lives. It needs community involvement and support to continue its mission. Please consider donating locally at Habitatmidva.org and follow it on Facebook and Instagram.
Want to get involved?
You can contact the team directly at habitatmiddlesex@gmail.com. To see volunteer opportunities in your community also check out the Volunteer River Counties hub at Volunteerrivercounties.org. Volunteering in your community has never been easier, and the need has never been greater.
