Thank You By Chantal Paquette

A miracle happens only once in awhile,
We just had to keep going that extra mile.
We were patient and waited a whole seven years,
Now we are filled with devotion expressing in tears.
We now have something to call our own,
We finally have this place called HOME.
Overwhelmed, amazed, it's hard to explain, we are shocked,
Our emotions exactly the same. It's a beginning to a brand new start,
We are striked with amazement, this fills our heart.
We are astonished that something like this, could happen to our family,
It's a crazy twist. This is the happily ever-after we were waiting for,
It was only our choice if we opened that door.
In the dark you showed us the light,
We now have the courage; we now have the might,
To take the next step in our brand new life.
So I'm saying this to only be true,
Habitat and Helpers we want to thank you.


Chantal is 16 years old and is the daughter of Brenda and Yvon Paquette. The Paquettes have 6 children (5 daughters, 4 of whom live at home and 1 son). I first met the Paquettes in 2005 when they were interviewed for a home that we built in Port McNicoll. The home unfortunately was too small to accommodate the family.

When Habitat for Humanity North Simcoe was given the opportunity to build a fourth home in 2008, the Paquettes were interviewed again and determined as the best suited family for the home. They moved in June 2009. It has been a pleasure getting to know the many members of this amazing family.

Chantal wrote a poem on behalf of her family to thank those who made their dream come true. After reading the poem, I suggested that she present it at the Dedication. Chantal had never spoken in public, she was nervous, but read her poem – as a result there was not a dry eye at the event. When asked if she would read her poem at Habitat's Annual General Meeting she put her nerves aside and said she would.

I believe that the opportunity to read her poem "Thank You" at the AGM has been an experience that will shape Chantal's future. She has been writing this summer and has a determination to explore outside her comfort zone. Chantal has grown immensely from the experience. Thank you Habitat Canada.

Kate Arnold
Chair Family Selection & Partnering
Habitat for Humanity North Simcoe