The Fuller Center for Housing of Martinsville-Henry County recently hosted a formal Home Dedication Ceremony, celebrating two families who recently transitioned into their new homes.
The event featured expressions of faith, encouragement, and appreciation delivered by the homeowners, the Executive Director, and members of the Fuller Center’s Board of Directors, alongside remarks from Bishop Alan Preston of Refuge Temple Ministries. The program also included a ceremonial Bible presentation and an official ribbon cutting. The afternoon concluded with a reception and walk-throughs of the new residences.
New homeowners Stephanie Tarpley and Sharon Martin completed the required sweat equity hours on their homes along with financial and homeownership training courses designed to equip them with the tools needed for long-term success and self-sufficiency. Ms. Tarpley will share her home with her three nephews—Joshua, Josiah, and Justice—while Ms. Martin will reside with her daughter, Serenity. Both homes are in the city of Martinsville.
Tarpley said, “My family and I are blessed. Having our own home means the world to me and my boys and I give thanks like Thessalonians 5:18 says; ‘In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.’”
Reflecting on the milestone, Martin shared a favorite Bible verse, Mark 11:24: “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Recalling her journey to reach this day, she gave full glory to God.
As Fuller Center homeowners, Tarpley and Martin received 0% interest, no-profit mortgages on their new, affordable modular homes. A collaborative effort between the Fuller Center for Housing, the West Piedmont Planning District Commission, Virginia Housing, and the Harvest Foundation made these home purchases possible.
“Today was special. I watched these families reach a milestone that they never thought was possible,” said Beth Stinnett, executive director of The Fuller Center for Housing of Martinsville-Henry County. “Over the last year, I’ve gotten to know Ms. Tarpley and Ms. Martin, so having the privilege of watching this all come together, truly blessed my heart. I’m proud of them and I’m excited for their futures.”
The Fuller Center, which began in 1988 as the local Habitat for Humanity chapter, has built 42 homes through the years and currently services the mortgages for 12 families.
Applications for the Fuller Center’s homeownership program are currently closed but are expected to reopen by spring 2027.
The Fuller Center for Housing relies on financial contributions from private donors, businesses, and churches to make affordable homeownership a reality for families in the community. Tax-deductible checks may be mailed to the Fuller Center for Housing at 932 Starling Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112, or donations can be made online at https://fullercenter.org/martinsville-henry/. Contributions of any size directly support upcoming home builds.
The Fuller Center for Housing is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that seeks to eradicate poverty housing by promoting partnerships with individuals and community groups to build and rehabilitate homes for people in need.
