Debra and Dillon Smith are preparing to begin a new chapter in their lives this week after they were officially given the keys to their new home during a dedication ceremony held Sunday with Habitat for Humanity officials and volunteers.

“Owning a home has always been my dream,” Smith said. “There are no words that can express what this gift from God means to us.”

Habitat Director Alecia Glaize said the home on South Road is the second home that has been completed in Atmore.

“This what the Lord has asked us to do,” she said. “This makes 20 homes for us and this is the second home we have completed in Atmore.”

Ron Zundel, who headed up construction on the new home, said it was a blessing to be able to work on something that would drastically improve the life of a local family.

“My crew and I had the privilege to help many of you build this house for Debra and Dillon,” Zundel said.

Jack O’Neil, manager for the Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Brewton raised funds for the home and said the Smith project was a new experience for him and his staff.

“This is the first house we have fully funded,” O’Neil said. “We couldn’t have a better job. Being able to help people like this. We love what we do.”

Smith, like all Habitat for Humanity homeowners, will now begin to pay back an interest-free loan, the money from which will go to help others in need of homes during future Habitat projects.

“This has been such an amazing journey,” Smith said just prior to the ribbon cutting. “We are just so thankful.”