19-year-old Ethan and his mother, Mayra, were selected as the 2026 recipients. Ethan was diagnosed with leukemia in 2024. Through Building Hope for Kids, their home in Northeast Philadelphia was reconfigured and reimagined to fit their everyday needs. Ethan’s bedroom was drenched in green and moved to the basement, while Mayra’s office, closet, and bedroom were remodeled on the second story. Their first-floor walls were taken down to create an open concept kitchen and living space, where they often entertain their community.

8-year-old Rhonda and her mother, Joyce, were selected for a home makeover in 2025. Rhonda was diagnosed with leukemia in 2023. The Burns home held a sense of community, as Joyce has always opened the home to foster children. Through Building Hope for Kids, they received an updated and functional space that would aid in Rhonda’s healing and growing.

Then 2-year-old, Alexandra was diagnosed with leukemia at age 1. Her family was the recipient of the 2020 renovation. The home boasts an updated kitchen, brand-new bedrooms to accommodate two growing children, and a safe and fun backyard for play.