Three local families officially became homeowners Sunday afternoon as Habitat for Humanity of Owensboro-Daviess County hosted a triple home dedication ceremony at Cargill Corner, a new development made possible through a land donation from Cargill.
Sharmeca Walton, Alysha Howard, and Kalyn Mays each received keys to their homes in a celebration that also served as a farewell to outgoing Executive Director Jeremy Stephens and a welcome to Habitat’s incoming leader Amanda Green.
“This milestone represents the heart of our mission: building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter,” Stephens said.
The event featured remarks from local leaders including Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen, Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson, and representatives from Cargill.
Brian Reid, representing Cargill’s Owensboro Grain, credited the collaboration with Stephens and Habitat’s team for bringing the vision to life.
“We always talk about wanting to make an impact in our community,” Reid said. “I can’t think of a better way than with families, with children, and with generations to grow.”
Castlen praised the dedication of Habitat’s volunteers and emphasized the importance of community and neighborly relationships.
“We’re not perfect because we’re people, but we are loving and giving,” he said. “This block is proof of that. More important than the house you live in is the relationship you build with your neighbors.”
Watson highlighted the city’s growing partnership with Habitat, noting that the nonprofit was recently certified as a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO), which allows federal funds to be directed to Habitat-led projects.
“Cargo Corner stands as a powerful example of how this shared vision translates to real, tangible investments in our community,” Watson said.
Stephens, visibly emotional, reflected on his final dedication and the theme of tenacity, especially after a March hailstorm caused significant damage just before the families were scheduled to move in.
“These houses were so good, we had to build them twice,” Stephens said. “It took tenacity from every level of this organization to make sure these families didn’t move into homes that were compromised.”
He recognized staff members, volunteers, and the families for their persistence and patience, noting that the process, though difficult, is intentionally challenging to prepare families for homeownership.
Howard said she was overwhelmed with joy to finally receive her keys after the delays.
“It feels really good to be in my house,” she said. “It’s been a long time coming because of the hailstorm, so I’m excited and I can’t wait to move in.”
Walton echoed the sentiment, saying, “It’s exciting. I have more room and it’s going to help me save money. I found the process very challenging but enjoyable. It makes it mean even more in the end.”
Each family received both a ceremonial key for photos and the real key to move in immediately. The event concluded with applause, celebration, and a hopeful look toward the future — for the new homeowners, the neighborhood, and Habitat’s continued mission.
