Marine receives home makeover

A South Florida Marine and his family got a major home makeover thanks to a caring South Florida community. 

The Dania Beach Design District sponsored a Military Room Makeover for Lance Cpl. Martin Escoto, giving his family all new furniture. 

"I told these people they are a blessing," Escoto said. "I can't express how thankful I am. It's going to save me a lot of money." 

Escoto was shot in the stomach in 2006 while in Iraq and received a Purple Heart for his service. Now, he is back in South Florida with his family, studying for a career in electrical engineering. 

"We appreciate not only because we're getting, you know, something that will benefit our home, but it's something he can enjoy, something that he's always wanted. He almost didn't come back, but he's here," said Escoto's sister, Linda Escoto. 

The makeover included new living room furniture and two bedroom sets, a fresh new start for the proud military vet. 

"It shows him that it was definitely worth it, and to be back here, it's definitely worth it. And, to have the family together, it's definitely worth it," Linda Escoto said. "It's not easy, but this is what you fight for." 

Nine military families received home makeovers through the project.