Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Warrick Dunn continues to make a lasting impact on families in Florida, long after his retirement from professional football. Through his nonprofit, Warrick Dunn Charities, and a partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Dunn recently surprised single mom LaToya Reedy and her 18-year-old son with a fully furnished two-bedroom home in St. Petersburg.
LaToya, 39, a nursing assistant, had struggled to make ends meet, sharing a bedroom with her son at her mother’s house for two years. But on that extraordinary Tuesday, she walked into her new home, filled with emotion.
“Being a homeowner now, I can be at home,” LaToya exclaimed, her voice filled with gratitude. “I can bring sweet memories to my house, have my family and friends over, and finally have a place to call my own.”
This heartwarming moment was not an isolated incident. LaToya is the 173rd recipient of a home presented by Dunn’s Foundation, which has been dedicated to helping single mothers achieve homeownership.
Dunn’s inspiration stems from his own experiences. After losing his mother, Betty Smothers, to violence when he was just 17, Dunn took on the responsibility of caring for his five siblings. His mother’s selflessness and compassion left an indelible mark on his life.
“My mom was superwoman,” Dunn reflected. “She was kind, thoughtful, and always put others first. I strive to carry on her legacy by helping single mothers, like LaToya, build a better life for themselves and their families.”
Through his foundation, Dunn has created a ripple effect of kindness, transforming the lives of countless families. LaToya’s story serves as a testament to the power of generosity and the enduring impact of one person’s legacy.
As LaToya settles into her new home, she embodies the spirit of resilience and determination. “It’s been a long, hard journey,” she said, “but we made it. Now, I can be at peace, and that’s something I’ve always wanted for my son and myself.
