TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Home ownership is a dream for many. It was for Bunnie and Tom Born.

“They don’t know how much they helped us. I think we got a fresh start,” said Bunnie Born while she and her husband sat on the front porch of the home they’ve lived in for more than 35 years.

It is the first home built by Wabash Valley Habitat for Humanity. They were excited when they found out they received the home and could stop renting.

“Whoa,” Bunnie laughed. “I think we were off the wall weren’t we? Oh yea, we were really happy over that.”

They moved in back in November of 1987. Over the years, they’ve raised two sons and helped numerous fosters kids.

“It gives a lot of people the opportunity to have a real home and I think that’s especially important when you have children. They need a place to call their own,” Bunnie continued.

Akqilia Long is the most recent owner of a Habitat home. We caught up with her, when she and her children moved-in earlier this month.

“My children, they will have their own bedrooms that’s what I’m most excited about,” said Akqilia Long. “I have self-closing cabinets, so they won’t smash their fingers or anything like that.”

Habitat for Humanity wants to help provide people with safe, stable, and affordable housing. Valerie Reed is a Wabash Valley Habitat for Humanity board member.

“The safety and security knowing that nobody can come take that away from you is so important and you don’t have to worry about the what-ifs when it’s yours,” said Valerie Reed.

Everyone who moves into a Habitat home must help with its building or remodeling. They also receive a mortgage they can afford.

“We’ve got the house paid off. It’s been paid off for awhile now,” commented Bunnie.

The Borns have happily lived in their home for more than 35 years. They are now enjoying retirement. It’s been a good journey they hope for Long as well.