A DeFuniak Springs single mom stepped into a new chapter of stability and hope thanks to Habitat for Humanity Walton County—then received an unforgettable surprise on move-in day.
When first-time homeowner Samantha Brown arrived at her new home with her three children, she was greeted by FSU and Tampa Bay Buccaneers legend Warrick Dunn, whose nonprofit, Warrick Dunn Charities (WDC), has been changing the lives of single parents for more than 25 years.
Dunn’s signature program, Homes for the Holidays (HFTH), partners with families who are already working hard to achieve homeownership. Instead of giving away homes, HFTH provides the extra support that makes long-term stability achievable—down payment assistance, fully furnished rooms, stocked pantries and a move-in-ready home.
Samantha’s life-changing surprise included $5,000 in down payment assistance and a home that was move-in ready; $10,000 worth of new furnishings provided by Aaron’s, the national rent-to-own retailer; and a fully stocked pantry and household essentials.
Her blessing adds to WDC’s nationwide impact:
- 246 fully furnished Homes for the Holidays recipients
- 667 dependents served
- More than $1.2 million in down payment assistance donated
- 31 markets reached across the country
Founded in honor of Dunn’s late mother, Betty Smothers, the charity focuses on breaking the cycle of generational poverty through stability, education and wellness. WDC also operates the Count on Your Future financial literacy program, Health Is Wealth wellness initiatives and scholarship opportunities for student volunteers.
A Milestone Moment for Habitat Walton County
Samantha’s new home also marked a major achievement for Habitat for Humanity Walton County—the 75th Habitat home built locally and the completion of the organization’s first-ever Habitat neighborhood!
“We are so proud to celebrate Samantha Brown and her three children as the newest Habitat homeowners and the completion of our 75th Habitat home. This home was special, because it was the last home in our first ever Habitat neighborhood,” said Teresa Jones, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Walton County. “This moment is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of partnerships like Warrick Dunn Charities that make dreams of homeownership a reality for hardworking families in our community. We are so thankful to Ryan Jumonville for bringing this wonderful organization to our area.”
Habitat for Humanity Walton County, founded in 1996, has grown its impact steadily over nearly three decades:
- 75 homes completed for Walton County families
- 100% of every donated dollar goes directly to homebuilding
- Hundreds of local volunteers contribute annually
- Sweat equity model empowers families to invest in their homes and futures
- Affordable, no-interest mortgages help families achieve long-term financial stability
The need is great. Many working families in Walton County currently spend more than 50% of their income on housing, making homeownership feel out of reach. Habitat’s model provides a dignified, sustainable path forward. It partners with people in the community to help them build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. With your support, Habitat homeowners achieve the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life for themselves and for their families.
A New Beginning for a Deserving Local Family
Samantha, an administrative professional with Ascension Sacred Heart Medical Group, supports her family, which includes her 15-year-old son, 8-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter. After completing hundreds of hours of sweat equity, she finally held the keys to her own home—now made even more special by the generosity of WDC. Overjoyed, Samantha was surprised and excited for this new chapter in her family’s story.
To learn about volunteer opportunities, homeownership programs or ways to give, visit Habitat for Humanity Walton County: waltoncountyhabitat.org; Warrick Dunn Charities: wdc.org.
