Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County welcomes 64th home

Two years is a long time to wait to move into a new home. But when that home has the potential to change your life that wait becomes worth it.

In Salisbury, Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico county had a celebration for their newest homeowners.  

315 Charles Street is now the 64th home being added to the Habitat for Humanity organization.

The community gathered to celebrate welcome to Occeas Family.

But the story behind how they got the house began two years ago with a donation from Earl Herwick.

Herwick is a local who decided to help out, instead of selling the house for a big profit.

The inside was completely gutted. They were able to add new bathrooms, a new kitchen, and even new appliances.

Countless hours of hard work is what led to these beautiful renovations.

The newest homeowner, Vernica Occeas, was even able to pick every detail from the carpets to the color of the house.

Overjoyed at the dedication ceremony, Occeas says she couldn't be more excited to finally make this house her home.

And we are told this home is not only changing the Occeas' lives but also the community around them.

Habitat's Executive Director, Molly Hilligoss says, "When this home was originally donated two years ago the value of the home was $35,000. Now because of the improvements it's $75,000. So you can imagine the impact it terms of property values in the neighborhood. People are improving their homes because we are improving the neighborhood, it's tremendous."

Habitat for Humanity tells 47 ABC they have six more dedications for this summer.

One of their traditions for the dedication ceremonies is to invite community members to come out and support the newest homeowners in the area.