FCCA is more than just a housing organization. It is an institution that contributes to the security, stability, and strength of the community, particularly for those who have dedicated their lives to our country. For many senior citizens, finding a safe place to live can be a challenge. However, thanks to FCCA, many elderly individuals today can enjoy the comfort and safety of a secure home. One such person is 76-year-old Marianne Anthony, who, in 2017, found herself in a situation where she urgently needed to find a new home. Eventually, she was able to secure housing in Santa Filomena, Paradera, a neighborhood designed specifically for seniors by FCCA. Her story is a testament to how FCCA continues to provide dignified living conditions for Aruba’s elderly.
Before moving to Santa Filomena, Marianne had lived for 25 years in a house on Venezuela Street in Oranjestad. Many people assumed she owned the home, but in reality, she had been renting it all along. “I took such good care of the house that people around me thought it was mine." However, after 25 years, the owners decided to sell it.” At the age of 67, Marianne suddenly faced an entirely new challenge. She found herself without a secure place to live and had to start searching for a new home. “The search was not easy. I found houses, but they were either too expensive or located in neighborhoods unfamiliar to me.” At a moment when she was feeling increasingly desperate, someone gave her a valuable tip: FCCA had a special housing project for senior citizens in Santa Filomena. Without hesitation, she took the opportunity and applied, hoping to regain stability in her life.
Marianne recalls feeling somewhat nervous during the application process. “At first, I wondered if I would be able to afford the house. But I was determined, so I completed and submitted all the necessary paperwork.” Just one month later, Marianne received the news she had been hoping for—she had been granted a safe and stable home. “I prayed a lot." This was back in 2017, and at that time, I even had the option to choose my house because there were still a few available.” “I chose a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home. If only a one-bedroom house had been available, I would have taken that too.”
For Marianne, life in Santa Filomena is something she cherishes every day. “I have no problems with anyone. We treat each other well, and everything is peaceful.” With over 25 homes in the project, she believes that having dedicated housing for seniors is extremely important.
“We live like a community, but everyone maintains their independence. FCCA organizes events during the holiday season, bringing us together.” Beyond providing housing, FCCA ensures that the area is well-maintained. “Our gardens are cleaned once a week, and if there are any issues with the infrastructure, FCCA responds immediately.”
“I couldn’t be more grateful to FCCA. They changed my life. If it weren’t for them, I don’t know where I would be living right now. At my age, the most important thing is to have a secure home, a place where I don’t have to worry about what will happen tomorrow. FCCA has given me that stability, and for that, I am eternally grateful.”
Marianne acknowledges that many elderly individuals do not get the same opportunity she did, which is why she hopes that FCCA will continue developing more projects like Santa Filomena. According to Marianne, many people her age need a place like Santa Filomena. “Not everyone can afford high rent. FCCA provides us with stability and the opportunity to live without worry,” she explains. She hopes that more projects like this will become a reality in the future, ensuring that more senior citizens can enjoy a dignified and secure home.
Built with Shorthand