The Santos Family - E2 Marine 

After enduring eviction, financial hardship, and starting over with almost nothing, Jafrin and Lizzy Santos were determined to rebuild a safe and stable home for their baby boy. Lizzy had managed to save for a few essentials such as a couch, a bed, and a kid mattress, but their house still felt bare and far from homey. Make It Your Home stepped in to furnish every space with care, creating a warm family living room, a tropical master retreat inspired by Jafrin’s Dominican roots, and a playful nautical themed room for their son. What was once empty and overwhelming is now filled with comfort, dignity, and hope for this hardworking Marine family.

The Santos family’s journey has been one of hardship, resilience, and hope. Lizzy became a mother in April of last year. Not long after, her husband Jafrin made the decision to join the Marine Corps so he could provide a better life for their baby boy. But the road was anything but easy. They were told they would receive BAH while he was at boot camp so Lizzy could stay stable with the baby, but that support never came. After three long months, she was left trying to keep up with bills on her own. Without any help, they were evicted, forcing her to sell everything they owned and move in with his parents just to get by. When Jafrin finally made it to the fleet, their BAH was denied completely, leaving them without the back pay they had been depending on. It was a crushing setback, especially while raising a newborn mostly on her own.

Now the Sa are finally back together at Camp Pendleton, living in base housing and determined to rebuild. Lizzy worked hard to save and managed to purchase a beautiful couch, their bed, and a bed for their son. But even with those essentials, the house still felt empty and far from homey. They dreamed of a space that reflected their love for mid-century modern style, but after everything they had been through, it felt out of reach.

That is where Make It Your Home stepped in. We furnished the rest of the Santos’ house with warmth and intention, bringing their dream style to life. Their living room became an inviting space for family time, while their master bedroom was transformed into a tropical retreat inspired by Jafrin’s Dominican roots. With lush greenery, wood accents, and light, airy textures, the room became a peaceful escape where they could recharge together. Their son’s bedroom was given a playful nautical theme, filled with coastal details that sparked joy and created a cozy space just for him. For Jafrin, a very new Marine working tirelessly to provide for his family while also pursuing a photography side business, and for Lizzy, who spends her days caring for their baby, this transformation meant more than just furniture. It gave them a true home; modern, cozy, and filled with love where they could find stability, peace, and joy after so many challenges.