Princess Anne, MD — On Friday, July 10, 2026, Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County (HFHWC) celebrated the Blessing of its newest home in Princess Anne, the nonprofit agency’s first in Somerset County. The event welcomed community members, partners, and local dignitaries to honor the Payton Family, who have purchased the new home through Habitat’s affordable homeownership program.
Molly Hilligoss, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County says, “With the cost of rent, food, and healthcare rising, and attainable housing becoming increasingly scarce, it is truly a great day when we can celebrate a family achieving the dream of homeownership.”
Princess Anne Town Manager Dr. Kristen Drummond and Princess Anne Commissioner President Zelma E. Hayward were present to witness this milestone Blessing for Somerset County. Dr. Drummond spoke of the impact of Habitat’s homeownership program and its positive impact on the lives of hardworking families.
Ms. Payton, a working mother, shared her story with those in attendance, expressing the difficulty she faced in paying for rent, groceries, and other bills while taking care of her family. Through hard work and with the support of Habitat donors, volunteers, and family support mentors, Payton was able to secure a brighter, more stable future for herself and her family.
HFHWC thanks the Rural Maryland Council, The State of Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta down payment assistance program through First Shore Federal Savings and Loan, and all of the donors, supporters, and volunteers who have helped six families receive Habitat homes in 2026.
HFHWC welcomes all applicants for homeownership. To get started, visit wicomicohabitat.org.
About Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County
Habitat for Humanity works to make homeownership of safe, affordable homes a matter of conscience and action. Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County was founded in 1987. Since then, the affiliate has served 99 families with affordable homeownership and 198 families with critical home repairs. For more information, visit www.wicomicohabitat.org.
