-With lots of support, the home was built for those with exceptional needs -
On December 20, supporters and volunteers with Murchadha House were proud to celebrate the completion of their first home built for those with exceptional needs with an official ribbon cutting ceremony.
Construction on the home, built on Fox Street in Cottam, began last spring.
Sandy Murphy, President of Murchadha House, said this organization’s mandate is to build supported living, fully accessible houses for people with intellectual disabilities, so they can live as independently as possible within the community.
“I am so proud of this project and would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody who helped make this vision become a reality. Thank you so much to all the suppliers, contractors, volunteers, organizations, and individuals [who] donated their products, labour, time, and money to make this project a success,” Murphy said.
A permanent billboard has been installed in the garage to pay tribute to the businesses and organizations that donated to the house. There is also a sign showing all the names of people who donated through the Buy-a-Brick Campaign.
“The support that we have received from the community, the construction industry, and individuals has been amazing. Thank you so much,” she added, offering a special ‘thank you’ to Darrin Murphy, who volunteered as the General Contractor on this project.
“We are very proud of the results,” Murphy added at the ribbon cutting. “I am very excited to open the doors and let everyone see the finished product.
“This is just a small step to solving the shortage of supported living housing in Windsor/Essex County. At Murchadha House, we want to eliminate the long waiting lists that people with exceptional needs face,” Murphy said.
Starting January 1, 2020, Community Living Essex County will lease and manage this house for
youth with exceptional needs, who require support in their daily living. When the youth turn 18, the house will transition into an adult home, so they can stay there and continue to build ties in the community.
Murchadha House is still collecting donations. Those wanting to give can call 519-996-8761 or email murchadhahouse@gmail.com.
Murphy noted Murchadha House’s next project is in the very early planning stages.
More information about this service organization can be found at www.murchadhahouse.ca or on its Facebook page.