Habitat for Humanity of Marion County dedicated their new home for a Knoxville family at 502 West Rock Island Street today.

Nikki Cunningham and her daughter Kenndal arrived at the home with the Pleasantville Police Department and were greeted by 1997 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Warrick Dunn. As a part of the home dedication, Dunn surprised the Cunningham family with a $5,000 down-payment assistance check and $10,000 worth of furniture from Aaron’s. This was the 217th home celebration across the country in which Warrick Dunn Charities, Inc. has supported single parents in achieving first-time homeownership as a part of their “Homes for the Holidays” program. Nikki said that the handicap accessible home will be a huge help in raising Kenndal.

“It’s the most special gift ever. My biggest worry is, what am I going to do when Kendall’s too big that I can’t just carry her anywhere? And the fact that I don’t have to worry about that anymore, it just seems insane to me.”

Dunn added that being able to help single-parent families with providing stable housing is a satisfying feeling.

“Just understanding and learning more about her journey and a lot of recipients, their journey is similar to my mom’s. But I also know the commitment and the sacrifice that these individuals make to provide a stable environment. And for me it’s like how can I help someone and potentially solve a society issue? And stable housing does that. So I think she’s creating a really great environment and it is only the beginning for her.”

Hear more from Nikki Cunningham and Warrick Dunn on Thursday’s Let’s Talk Knoxville.