POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Allison is a single mother of six children, five of whom have disabilities. 

Her life, like many mothers, is wrapped completely around the well-being of her children and their special needs. Now, she is a homeowner.

“We will never have to live in an unsafe or inaccessible apartment again,” said Allison, addressing the crowd Monday in front of her new home. “Each of us will have our own space that we can personalize and truly make this house a home.”

Allison said the kids didn’t know they were moving into their first home on Monday. 

However, Allison was also in for a surprise. The home was built by Habitat for Humanity to fit each child’s special need but what Allison didn’t know is that the home was fully furnished with a brand new car in the garage. 

“Oh my gosh, I get my own bathroom,” said one of Allison’s daughters as she and her siblings eagerly walked through each room in the house. 

Warrick Dunn Charities, Aaron’s and The Denard Span Foundation each participated in filling the house with items that would make it feel more like home. 

“I can’t wait to build new traditions and memories here for years to come,” said Allison. 

Mike Sutton, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity, said Allison worked over 300 service hours on her home and others, in addition to completing courses for their program. 

“This is a big day,” said Sutton. “We typically do one of these projects on an annual basis. They were selected based on handicap issues but we’re so proud of the work she’s done to finish out the program.” 

Now Allison and her family can start a new chapter together. If you’re interested in volunteering with Habitat for Humanity check out their webpage: www.habitat.org.