Navy veteran and family receive keys to new Gulfport home on Veterans Day
Operation Homefront and Meritage Homes provide a path toward mortgage-free homeownership
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — Navy veteran Maggie Coleman and her family received the keys to a new home in Gulfport on Veterans Day through Operation Homefront’s Permanent Homes for Veterans program and a partnership with Meritage Homes.
The family stepped inside the house, which could become their forever home.
“I’m very honored to have this space,” Coleman said.
Months of paperwork and interviews
The process started with a Facebook ad and turned into months of paperwork, interviews and waiting.
“It’s going to create boundary space, safety. It gives us a place to sit and enjoy each other. Create new memories, I’m excited about,” Coleman said.
The home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It comes fully furnished, including family pictures on the walls and decorated bedrooms. The home also has a fenced-in backyard.
Operation Homefront and Meritage partnership
Operation Homefront’s program helps military families build stable futures.
“This is an amazing program and so special for us to be here on Veterans Day, honestly making Maggie’s dreams come true,” said Regan Huneycutt, Operation Homefront’s chief revenue officer.
Meritage Homes has partnered with Operation Homefront for 12 years. This is the 23rd home the company has donated.
“We’re just happy to provide a fully furnished home to a deserving family and just couldn’t be more excited about it,” said Matt Meehan, Meritage Gulf Coast division president.
Path to owning the home
Receiving the keys is the first step. For the next few years, Coleman will work with an Operation Homefront caseworker. She will build financial skills and prepare for homeownership.
“And when she successfully graduates from that program, she’ll receive the deed to this home mortgage-free,” Huneycutt said.
Coleman said she plans to take a few moments in the home before settling in.
“I’m going to sit down for a few moments, bask in the moment, and then I’m going to move myself. Get all settled. Make it homey ... Homey-er,” Coleman said.
Since 2012, Operation Homefront’s Permanent Homes for Veterans program has helped place more than 700 military families in homes nationwide.
Information about eligibility is available at OperationHomefront.org.
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