HOUSTON COUNTY, Ga. — A Houston County family said they are looking forward to moving into their forever home with help from Houston County's Habitat for Humanity.
After losing Michael Topps a month ago, his wife, Laverne Topps said that move will be bittersweet.
"He was so excited, in fact, like I said we would oftentimes come over and just pray about the vision we had for this house," Laverne said.
The Topps family moved to Houston County five years ago. Since then, the three of them have been living in a one-bedroom apartment.
They inherited a home from a family member, but they couldn’t move in with all the changes that needed to be made. Now without Michael, Laverne said this project is bigger than what she can handle.
“I can’t do this. I don’t have the resources…I can’t do it," Laverne said.
Zenia Topps is Michael and Laverne's daughter. She took matters into her own hands and applied for Habitat for Humanity’s Repair Program.
"When I figured out they were having a meeting for the opening, once again I didn’t tell them I just got up, I went, started the paperwork, started the process, and then when we got selected," Zenia said.
Laverne said she was very grateful for the partnership.
“I’ve never been involved with Habitat, but to me, they’ve gone beyond the call of duty," Laverne said.
Tiffany Dupree is the program services coordinator at Habitat for Humanity in Houston County. She said she wanted to go the extra mile for this family.
"I just kind of felt like a connection with Mr. Michael. He kind of reminded me of my dad and so when he passed, I just felt like I couldn't leave Laverne," Dupree said.
Laverne wants people to remember that someone always needs support.
"Always be able to have your arms open because you never know who you may have to embrace," Laverne said.
If you want to donate, volunteer, or find a way to support the Topps family, you can reach out to Habitat for Humanity at 478-328-3388 or development@hocohabitat.org.