DALTON, Mass. (WWLP) - A local family is starting the new year with hope and happiness as they settle into their brand-new home on Gulf Road, thanks to the efforts of Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity (CBHFH). Oliver and Stephanie Santillan, along with their two young sons, are thrilled to leave behind the one-bedroom attic rental they had called home for years. Their new three-bedroom house, built with energy efficiency and comfort in mind, is a dream come true. Thirty cats seek loving homes after being rescued from Massachusetts home “We are a happy and united family, dreaming of raising our little ones in a lovingenvironment with great opportunities,” said Oliver, a local tradesman. “We dreamt of a place to call our own, where we can design, decorate, and have a yard for our children to play and grow.” Stephanie, a clinician, echoed her husband’s sentiment, emphasizing the emotional and financial stability the home provides. “For me, having the opportunity to purchase this home means emotional and financial stability, freedom, generating wealth for the future, being able to offer an inheritance to our children.” Checking out their new backyard to see if it is suitable for a game of tag (Courtesy of Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity)Trying out the little excavator pit at the local playground with Dad (Courtesy of Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity)Family play at the neighborhood playground (Courtesy of Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity) The family first learned about Habitat for Humanity through friends and online research. Encouraged by the stories of others, they decided to visit CBHFH’s office to learn more about the application process. The Santillans’ journey to homeownership wasn’t just about receiving a house—it was about giving back. As part of Habitat’s partnership model, the family contributed their time and energy at CBHFH’s Pittsfield construction sites and the ReStore retail outlet. These partnership hours allowed them to see firsthand how Habitat homes are built, gain valuable skills for maintaining their own house, and support other families working toward their dreams. Planning their new bedrooms (Courtesy of Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity)Checking out the new digs (Courtesy of Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity) “Fulfilling partnership hours is a vital part of the Habitat process,” said CBHFH CEO Carolyn Valli. “It gives the families a chance to see how the homes are built, learn how to maintain and repair their future home, and in the process, give back to other families who will soon be moving into their own first-time homes." The Santillans’ new home is located near vibrant parks and outdoor spaces, providing their children with room to play and grow. The boys quickly claimed their bedrooms during an early visit, eagerly planning where to place their beds and toy chests. As new residents of Dalton, the Santillans look forward to becoming active members of their community, participating in neighborhood beautification projects and local events. For those considering applying to Habitat for Humanity, the family offered words of encouragement: “Don’t hesitate to apply. Sometimes, we’re closer to achieving our dreams than we think. Habitat is a dedicated organization that will support you every step of the way.” Local News Headlines Holyoke Mall secures three-year loan extension Local 5th graders learn about weather and journalism Westfield police seeking help in identifying individuals suspected of package theft State program offers winter heating bill relief WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.