Eglin Federal Credit Union proudly participated in the dedication ceremony for Habitat for Humanity’s 74th and 75th new home builds in Okaloosa County. As a financial partner in the construction of both homes located in Crestview, Eglin FCU was honored to support this meaningful initiative.
The recipient of the 74th home was Samarian Thrift, a full-time mother and caregiver to a child with special needs. The 74th home is the first ADA home built by Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa, while the milestone 75th home was presented to one of Eglin FCU’s own — Card Services Representative Kassandra Hatten.
“There are over 7,000 languages in the world, yet none can truly express what Eglin FCU and Habitat for Humanity have done for my family,” homeowner Kassandra expressed. “Working for Eglin FCU is more than just a job. It’s a community, a family and a source of opportunity. This home isn’t just fresh paint or new grass; it’s safety, dignity, education, and freedom. Eglin FCU and Habitat have shown me grace and love, while also teaching the value of honesty and perseverance. I’m deeply honored and grateful to be part of both families.”
Cathie Staton, president and CEO of Eglin Federal Credit Union, shared remarks at the dedication. “It’s an incredible honor to celebrate something special — a new beginning, a new chapter, and a new home for these deserving families. At Eglin Federal Credit Union, we believe in the power of community and the philosophy of ‘people helping people.’ Partnering with Habitat for Humanity reflects our core values and commitment to building hope and opportunity. Today, we celebrate that when we work together with purpose and compassion, we can build more than financial wellbeing. We build hope, stability and opportunity. Thank you to Habitat Okaloosa and everyone who contributed to making this dream a reality. Congratulations, and welcome home!”
Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa is a nonprofit that builds safe, affordable homes for families in need — offering a hand up, not a handout. Partner families invest 300 hours of sweat equity and receive zero-interest mortgages, with payments reinvested into future builds. With support from more than 600 volunteers annually, Habitat completes two to four homes each year. Its ReStores in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview sell donated goods at discounted prices, helping to fund construction projects and promote sustainability.
Frankie Gibbs, chairman of the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa, said, “It’s an incredible honor to celebrate the dedication of houses 74 and 75. When Habitat Okaloosa completed its first home over 30 years ago, the sense of accomplishment was profound. That feeling remains with every new dedication. Watching homeowners experience the joy of achieving a lifelong dream is deeply moving. I’m sincerely grateful to the staff, volunteers, friends and financial partner who make these homes possible.”
“I will always be thankful for all the land donations from the City of Crestview and Eglin Federal Credit Union for paying the costs to build Homes 74 and 75,” said Nitsi Bennet, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity in Okaloosa County. “I’m also grateful to our lunch providers for the meals for our volunteers on Saturdays. They will never know how much they impacted our volunteers. Please know that it is you who made Habitat Okaloosa special.”
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Photo caption: Eglin FCU President/CEO Cathie Staton and Habitat Okaloosa Chairman Elect Frankie Gibbs congratulate homeowners Kassandra Hatten and Samarian Thrift.
