It's a story of hope and a story of a new start. We've heard a lot this year about families losing their homes, but on Monday two Mid-Michigan families will no longer worry about how they'll make rent each month. NBC25 is a proud partner of Dort Federal Credit Union's Home for the Holiday's Home Giveaway, and we were there on Monday for the big announcement.

The ultimate gift this year doesn't come in box. It's the gift of home ownership, and for two Mid-Michigan families it's something they never thought possible.

"We've struggled. This is our tenth Christmas together, and we've always lived in a rental," say new homeowners Marc and Scholeigh Kyle.

The tears start Monday even before Santa and Dort Federal Credit Union hand over over the ceremonial golden keys. These keys don't just unlock the door to a new home, but also a new life.

"I was in the process of trying to purchase a home, but with the economy tight, they're really putting strict guidelines on purchasing a home, and oh man it's just great," says Kara O'Hearn.

O'Hearn is a bus driver for Flint schools and a single mother of three. Her family can't wait to move out of their rental and into their new house.

"You hear about these kinds of things all the time, but you would never think in a million year (it would happen to you)."

"It's more than we expected, " says Scholeigh Kyle when asked what she thinks of her family's new home in Davison.

As parents of three special needs children a lot of her family's money goes toward medical expenses. Their 6-year-old son Chayce has a rare gastrointestinal disease, and requires a feeding tube. He's unable to eat.

"This gives us a chance. It opens up so many doors for us to be able to enjoy our family, and do a few fun things now."

Two families who, for the first time in a lot of years, are feeling less stressed this holiday season.

"A tremendous difference. A big burden off my shoulders," says O'Hearn.

They're also feeling unbelievable blessed to be given the gift of a new house.

"I prayed to God that this was going to be our chance!"

The two families will pay property and income taxes as well as home owners insurance. They'll also be required to take some courses on budgeting and home maintenance.

I asked Dort Federal Credit Union representatives if they'll be doing the home giveaway again next year...stay tuned for an answer!