TUPELO — With uncertainty in the market still an issue across the United States, it can be life-changing for individuals who couldn’t afford a home to get one with a little help. Today marked just that for one Northeast Mississippi Habitat for Humanity recipient.
Among a crowd of friends, family and officials, Tynisa Thornton and her four daughters received the keys to their new home, built through volunteer hours and a lot of hard work on her own, following a short blessing ceremony on Thursday morning.
“First, I want to thank God because if it weren’t for Him, none of us would be here today,” she said. “I’m ready to start this journey with me and my girls.”
Before moving into this new four-bedroom home, Thornton and her daughters, Cloey Montgomery, Kaylee Montgomery, Callie Montgomery and Karly Thornton, had to share space in a two-bedroom trailer. She said this home is a blessing, thanking everyone who had a hand in its construction, from volunteers to companies and organizations that sponsored the build-out.
For newly minted Northeast Mississippi Habitat for Humanity Director BJ Kent, this home marks the first of many. He said he was proud to see the keys exchange hands that morning and looks forward to seeing more days like this.
“I want this day to be a celebration of Ty, because Ty has worked her tail off to get here today,” he said. “This is the culmination of donors, sponsors, volunteers and everybody coming together.”
Ward 4 Councilwoman Nettie Davis attended the dedication as well, speaking on the importance of fostering affordable housing and her relationship with not only Thornton but many others.
“I’m just really proud of (Thornton). I’ve been knowing her since she was a little girl,” she said. “I can’t think of a more important thing for a person than for someone to own their own home. That is a dream come true for anybody.”
As is tradition, Thornton was presented with not just the keys to her new home, but also an American flag and a bible, representations of the non-profit’s religious commitment to its goal in housing those in need.
Northeast Mississippi Habitat for Humanity Board President Stacy Crowley had the honor of blessing the home. Skipper Holliman, of HomeStretch Furniture, presented Thornton with her flag, announcing the company also planned to donate her furniture. Shawn King, of State Farm, gave the closing prayer.
“God brings that final ingredient into this house to make it a home — his abundant love,” Crowley said. “May this love ripple through these walls for years to come, and may it become a fixture that will hold them in their joy and celebration as well as in their sorrow and tears.”