The Greatest Gift: Two Heroes, Two Families, Two Homes for the Holidays

Few gifts are more powerful than the gift of home. This December, PulteGroup’s Built to Honor program delivered that gift in the most meaningful way, handing two deserving veterans and their families the keys to mortgage-free homes just in time for the holidays. 

These unforgettable moments were made possible by the incredible dedication of our Central Texas and Houston teams, along with every partner and volunteer who worked tirelessly to make these celebrations happen. Together, these divisions turned two dreams into reality and gave these families something they will never forget. A safe place to call home for the holidays and beyond. 

Read on for recaps of both events and videos to relive the unforgettable moments. 

Central Texas Division Honors Army Veteran 

On December 10, our Central Texas Division partnered with Building Homes for Heroes to welcome U.S. Army Private Christopher Justiniano, his fiancée Jacklyn, and their young son to a beautiful new home in our Centex Skyview community in Belton, TX. 

Christopher served for more than four years, including a deployment to Iraq from 2009 to 2010, a time that demanded courage and sacrifice. His service left him with lasting challenges, yet his resilience and determination continue to inspire everyone who meets him. Thanks to the incredible efforts of our Central Texas team, trade partners, and the Belton community, the Justiniano family now has a safe, welcoming place to call home.

 The celebration was filled with a parade featuring the high school choir, band, color guard, cheerleaders, football team, JROTC, police and fire departments, Combat Vet Association, a flyover featuring seven planes, music, and several heartfelt speeches. As Christopher and Jacklyn stepped through the front door, the weight of uncertainty gave way to joy and relief, creating a holiday memory they will cherish forever.

“At PulteGroup, we've been building homes for over 75 years, but through Built to Honor, we build something even more meaningful: gratitude in the form of a home,” said Pablo Rivas, PulteGroup Central Texas Division President.  

Houston Division Welcomes Marine Corps Veteran 

That same day, our Houston Division partnered with Operation Homefront to gift Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Cassandra “Cassie” Pierre and her three children, Madison (8), Madalyn (7), and Marshall (5), a mortgage-free home in our Centex Stokesbury community in Waller, TX. 

Cassie’s decade of distinguished service earned her Marine of the Year honors and the rank of staff sergeant before a medical discharge related to service-connected conditions. After losing their home to a fire, this single mother faced incredible challenges with unwavering strength. On this day, those hardships gave way to hope. 

Our Houston team, led by Division President Lindy Oliva, ensured Cassie and her children walked into a home that radiated holiday joy, complete with a sparkling Christmas tree, wrapped gifts, and bedrooms personalized with their favorite themes: Harry Potter, Disney princesses, and Spider-Man. 

The celebration was nothing short of magical, featuring a festive parade led by Waller High School band, the presentation of colors, and an emotional home reveal that brought tears, laughter, and the true spirit of the season. For Cassie and her children, this home is more than walls and a roof, it is a promise of stability, safety, and brighter days ahead.