Event marks the first home of more to come in recently announced initiative
Abigail Parrilla, CEO of The Arc of the South Shore (center), cuts the ribbon along with residents and Weymouth Mayor Robert Hedlund (fourth from right), State Senator Patrick O’Connor (third from right), State Representative Joan Meschino (second from right), and Board Member George Toma (far right)
The Arc of the South Shore, a family-oriented, community-based non-profit providing information, referrals, and community programs for individuals with disabilities, recently celebrated the opening of its first recently renovated residential group home and prototype of this smart home initiative on Broad Street in Weymouth on Thursday, January 26th.
The half-million-dollar renovation project has updated and modernized the five-bedroom dwelling by incorporating smart home technology to remotely automate many everyday tasks via internet connection. Smart home features in place at the two-floor residence include external high security cameras, a ring camera, voice-activated lighting, hands-free faucets, and full-speed internet – all features that will allow the residents to exercise self-determination while fostering independence and safety while improving both their quality of life and living space.
The residence is home to five gentlemen ranging in age from their 20s to 60s. They moved in approximately two weeks earlier and, with the help of Resident Manager Christopher Mitchell, settled in in time to show off their new living space during the celebration. In addition to their families, guests included The Arc of the South Shore board members as well as Weymouth Mayor Robert Hedlund, State Senator Patrick O’Connor, and State Representative Joan Meschino.
Patrick Gallagher, facilities director with The Arc of the South Shore, oversaw the half-million-dollar renovation. Project sponsors included The Flatley Foundation, the Knights of Columbus, and George Washington Toma.
The Arc of the South Shore recently announced plans to convert 10 of their current group homes into smart homes with updated technological features to provide more independence and empowerment for their residents. The Broad Street location in Weymouth marked the first of this smart home initiative.
“We truly appreciate everyone who was involved in not only making this house a reality, but in helping to convert more of our residences into smart homes,” said Abigail Parrilla, CEO of The Arc of the South Shore. “The joy and pride exuding from our residents as they took their family members on tours was truly overwhelming – efforts like these really make a profound difference in their lives. In addition to being smart, this new home is also beautiful, and we are committed to continuing this effort for more of our individuals in the near future.”
About the Arc of the South Shore, Inc.
The Arc of the South Shore (The Arc) was founded in 1951 when a group of individuals created a school for children with disabilities. Then, in 1967, The Arc was deeded property at Webb State Park in Weymouth; the space gave the agency a permanent home and the opportunity to expand. By the end of the 1980s, The Arc became a multi-service agency. Today, The Arc is a family-oriented, community-based non-profit providing information, referrals, and community programs for individuals with disabilities.
These services include an Autism Resource Center, early intervention program, community supports, employment services, day supports and habilitation programs, in-home care, and residential services. All of their programs are based on their six core values of people first, community, transparency, self-determination, diversity, and respect. The Arc serves participants from communities throughout the South Shore, including Abington, Milton, Quincy, Randolph, Braintree, Weymouth, Hingham, Hull, Cohasset, Scituate, and Norwell. Through their 71-year history, they have helped more than 100,00 people.
