Keeping It in the Family: Priscilla Hall’s Home Rebuild

At Beaches Habitat for Humanity, we believe that every home tells a story, and some stories should be preserved for generations. The Hall family’s story is about more than just walls and a roof for one family. This new home represents a shared dream of stability, hope, and a stronger Atlantic Beach community.

A Legacy Rooted in Community

For more than 75 years, Priscilla Hall’s family home in Atlantic Beach’s historic Mayport neighborhood has stood as a symbol of love, stability, and community. Priscilla grew up there, returned to care for her mother, and later raised her own children there.

“It was a refuge,” Priscilla’s daughter, April Lloyd, shared. “My grandparents didn’t have much, but they shared everything.”

The home was more than just a building. It was the center of family life and a gathering place for holidays and special events. But like many older homes, time took it’s toll. Structural issues made it unsafe.

“The house was leaning,” Priscilla said. “My mom used to say, ‘It’s going to fall over,’ and I would joke, ‘We’re going to fall with it.”

A Partnership with Purpose

Priscilla was determined to stay in the home that meant so much to her family. As a homeowner on a fixed income, the cost of a major repair could mean making impossible choices, like choosing between paying for her housing needs and covering essentials.

She needed a safe, affordable solution that would allow her to care for herself without giving up the place she called home.

Priscilla first explored Beaches Habitat’s Senior Repair Program, which helps homeowners over 60 address critical health and safety issues. But after a full assessment, it was clear that repairs alone wouldn’t be enough. Instead, Priscilla was invited to partner with Beaches Habitat on a complete rebuild, constructing a new, efficient, and affordable home on the same site.

Priscilla agreed, and a new partnership began.

Building the Future, Honoring the Past

With shared commitment from Priscilla, the Beaches Habitat construction team, volunteers, and supporters, her home is now taking shape.

The process isn’t just about construction. It’s about preserving the heart of a family and community.

Priscilla has been involved every step of the way. She regularly visits the site and has rallied her loved ones to help her complete Sweat Equity, the volunteer time Habitat homeowners contribute as part of the program.

One upgrade she’s especially excited about? A washer and dryer inside the house for the first time.

“At my age, not having to carry laundry outside is a blessing,” she said with a smile.

A Place to Call Home – for Generations

The new home honors the Hall family’s past while preparing for the future. With more space, energy-efficient systems, and accessibility features, Priscilla can continue to host family gatherings, celebrate milestones, and create memories with future generations.