BERLIN, Md. - Habitat for Humanity of Worcester County is breaking ground for a local mother in Bishopville for the opportunity to become a new homeowner.
According to Habitat, Deonhya Purnell, a single mother of an adult daughter and two high school aged sons, has been working at the Berlin Food Lion for over two decades, but has struggled to save money to put towards a down payment on a home. She cites the rising housing prices as one of the major reasons she has struggled to find an affordable living space.
In addition, Purnell says that though her income has steadily risen, this has put her in an unfortunate financial middle ground: Earning too much to qualify for assistance programs yet earning too little to secure a mortgage in the current lending market. This is on top of high rental fees in the area that has prevented her from saving enough money to build equity.
Through Habitat for Humanity's homeownership journey, Purnell plans to educate her children in the importance of keeping up smart spending habits, building good credit, and persistence.
Andrea Bowland, the executive director of Habitat for Humanity Worcester County, says that while the organization works to lower the cost of home construction through monetary donations and volunteer labor, of which Purnell and her family will be assisting in at the construction site, Purnell will still be paying a monthly mortgage, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance just like any other homeowner.
“I’ve worked for so long and couldn’t qualify for many programs. Now, just seeing how the community is reaching out is heartwarming. It just means the world,” says Purnell.
As the days get closer to Purnell finally holding the keys to her own home, she looks forward to being able to host family dinners, display her son's trophies and accomplishments from playing football and wrestling, and letting her granddaughter play in a backyard of her own.
“A yard for my granddaughter, a place for my boys and their friends … it’s all I’ve ever wanted,” says Purnell. “I can’t wait to have my family over for Christmas. I want my older relatives to come see our home."
For more information on how to get involved or to donate, those interested can visit Habitat for Humanity Worcester County's website or contact them directly at inquire@habitatworcester.org.