CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Father, United States veteran, and now Michael Bellipanni has a new title; homeowner.
Many would say there's no place like home, but for Bellipanni, that comfort was missing for several years.
The veteran said this was something he's been waiting on for a long time, and Habitat for Humanity was able to make his dream into a reality.
Habitat for Humanity has helped many area residents become homeowners, and staff said it couldn't have done this without its volunteers and supporters. The group recently received a $15,000 check donated by State Farm.
“And it's just generosity like that, that helps do things like this and put people like Mike in a home, so we just thank them,” said Corpus Christi Habitat for Humanity Operations Director John Ray.
Staff with the non-profit said seeing all the hard work come together into a place of rest, and an area someone and their family can gather and create new memories, makes hard work all worth it.
Bellipanni previously found himself homeless, and suffered from addiction. But now, he said he was able to battle his demons, and has worked hard to get where he is.
He put in long hours of sweat equity, too, in order to move in. But he said it doesn’t stop there. Michael has continued to volunteer more hours to help other low-income families, so they can have a place to call home, too.
“It's great, I mean, that's your dream -- you know -- own a home, be able to afford one," he said. "And with the help of a lot of people, God's made that possible.”
The non-profit said it is always needing volunteers. To see how you can become a volunteer click here.