Our Holiday Tradition Changes Lives

Each December, Down Payment Resource (DPR) continues a tradition of helping more people achieve the dream of homeownership. Last year, we partnered with Wider Path Home. a nonprofit dedicated to helping families establish stronger financial footing through down payment assistance. Through this partnership, aspiring buyers like Crystal Damon—a single mother in Salem, North Carolina—received the support she needed to purchase her first home.

Crystal’s path to homeownership was filled with challenges, including financial hurdles, a car accident and the strain of navigating one of the most competitive housing markets in years. However, she also had a devoted support system, including Ada Harshaw, a housing counselor with Financial Pathways of the Piedmont; Melvin Hinson, a loan officer with U.S. Bank in Winston-Salem; the team at Wider Path Home in Charlotte; and her family. 

In a video sharing her journey, Crystal describes the emotional and financial support she received throughout the process and how moving into her new home has changed her and her son’s lives. Her message to others: Keep pursuing your dreams and don’t let the voices saying “you can’t” drown out the truth that you can.

Editor’s Note: As we celebrate the 2025 holiday season, we extend our gratitude to the customers, partners, and organizations who make it possible for DPR to continue this work. This year we have chosen NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation for our holiday contribution to help more aspiring homeowners.