"This was a great Christmas gift. I don't get many gifts," McDonald Martin of Palmyra said.
[Ads /]
The Air Force veteran has recently been getting lots of gifts from his friends at Habitat for Humanity.
But Tuesday he was blessed with a present he always dreamed of.
"I never decorated the house and I've been here since 1970. This has never been done," Martin said.
North Philly native becomes 1st African-American student accepted in new biopharmaceutical program
North Philly native becomes 1st African-American student accepted in new program at Jefferson
The other week Habitat for Humanity put a new roof on Martin's home. They also realized his home could use some sprucing up.
"I appreciate what Habitat has done," he said. "I never thought this would be a payoff."
[Ads /]
Martin was a baker and communications specialist during the Korean War. Lori Leonard, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Burlington and Mercer counties, personally baked Martin cookies.
"He has the memory, a way better memory than mine and telling me stories, bible verses. He's such a great guy. We're actually really privileged to be able to help him," Leonard said.
8-year-old with autism, cancer gets Make-A-Wish surprise
Make-A-Wish surprises 8-year-old in Camden, New Jersey
Martin's home looks wonderful. This upcoming week he will receive another big present, a new heating system. He says it's truly a treat to be on the receiving end.
"This is the thing about America: we like to give and we like to help people," Martin said. "America always reaches out."