David and Donna Asberry’s journey with Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity began in September 2003 when they first applied for homeownership. At that time, they could hardly imagine the life-changing path they were about to embark on. Nearly a year later, on August 27, 2004, they closed on their very own Habitat home—a moment filled with hope and possibility.
Over the next 20 years, David and Donna made their monthly mortgage payments faithfully, each payment bringing them closer to the dream of fully owning their home. And on August 2, 2024, that dream was finally realized when they made their last payment. It was a moment of joy and accomplishment for the Asberry’s. For them, this wasn’t just about paying off a mortgage; it was a testament to years of hard work, commitment, and the incredible support they received from Habitat and their community.
As they reflect on their journey, David and Donna express overwhelming gratitude for the opportunity Habitat provided them. “We never imagined we could own a home. Habitat made it possible, and we are so thankful for everything they’ve done for us,” said Donna.
David, who had made a habit of visiting the Habitat office to personally deliver their mortgage payments, often spoke with Sherry Chesson, Family Services Director, about how much closer they were to paying off the house. It became a shared goal, one that brought the Habitat team and the Asberry’s even closer. “It feels incredible to finally achieve this goal; we owe so much to Habitat,” said David.
Throughout these two decades, the Asberry’s built not just a home but a life filled with strong and lasting friendships. Their Habitat subdivision became more than just a place to live; it became a true community. Neighbors became like family, always there to lend a helping hand. One neighbor, in particular, has taken on the task of mowing the Asberry’s lawn—a small but meaningful gesture that reflects the relationships formed over the years. “Our neighbors are like our extended family,” said David. “We look out for each other, and that’s something really special.”
Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity has been building homes since 1996, and the Asberry’s’ home was the 21st out of 80 homes built by the organization. Volunteers who helped build the Asberry’s’ house 20 years ago are still active today, working on every build since then.
As much as the Asberry’s’ final mortgage payment is a cause for celebration, it’s also a bittersweet moment for the Habitat team. Over the years, they’ve developed a close bond with David and Donna, and seeing them each month became something everyone looked forward to. While they’re thrilled to see the Asberry’s achieve financial independence, they will miss the regular visits and the conversations that have become a cherished part of their routine.
But even though the mortgage is paid off, the relationship between Habitat and the Asberry’s is far from over. “At Habitat, our relationship with homeowners like the Asberry’s never ends,” said Chesson. “We are always here, ready to support them whenever they need us. Their success is our success.”
For David and Donna, this journey with Habitat has been about more than just owning a home—it’s been about building a life and becoming part of a community that will always stand by them. Their story is a beautiful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together to support one another, and its evidence of the lasting impact of Habitat’s mission in creating homes filled with hope, love, and community.
