For seventeen years, Gwen K. Davison-Wimbley has been making monthly payments to Wichita Habitat for Humanity for her three bedroom home that was built in 1991.  Gwen was able to payoff her 20-year, 0% interest mortgage three years early by adding a few dollars to her payments here and there.

This marks the first Wichita Habitat homeowner who has paid their mortgage in full.  Gwen’s home was the third house of the 104 homes built by the affiliate since 1986. Linda Stewart, Wichita Habitat for Humanity Executive Director, said, “This is a monumental event as we celebrate Gwen’s journey of paying off her mortgage and owning her home.  This is what Habitat is all about:  offering opportunities for families to build financial stability and equity through homeownership. In the midst of a record number of foreclosures, we are excited to honor Gwen and share the good news about the opportunities for affordable homeownership.”

On March 12, 2009 at the Wichita Area Builders Association, there was a mortgage burning celebration in honor of Gwen and her accomplishment.