Families who are hurricane victims get new homes in time for the holidays

By Gilbert Baez, WRAL reporter

Fayetteville, N.C. — Christmas came early for two families forced from their homes by Hurricanes Matthew and Florence.

Family members turned the keys and walked into their new homes at the Fayetteville Habitat for Humanity dedication Friday.

This is an exciting day for Sharron Thompson who just got keys to her new Habitat home. For the past three years, the mother of five has been moving from place to place after Hurricane Matthew made her home unlivable.

Teandrea Hogue got the key to her home as well. She says it’s a blessing just in time for Christmas.

David Hibbard with Habitat knows the need for housing to help victims of Hurricanes Matthew and Florence is great, which is why the new community is important.

“Here at Oakridge Estates, there are going to be at least 15 homes specifically designated for hurricane impacted families, and possibly there could be more hurricane impacted people who could benefit from these homes,” said Hibbard.

47 homes are planned for this community. Habitat leaders are encouraging those in need of a place to stay to submit an application for a Habitat home.

The families who are getting these homes are looking forward to cooking Christmas dinner in their new kitchens.

There are going to be more dedications before the holidays are over.

Habitat hopes to have all the homes completed and occupied by the end of next year.