Family House has been helping families secure affordable housing during a hospital stay for 27 years. But recently, the organization has seen families' need for extra assistance nearly quadruple.
Today, 40 percent require help affording the cost of staying in one of Family House's facilities – up from 11 percent in 2008 – due to the economic climate, even though rooms are offered at less than half the going rate for local hotels. The organization hosts more than 10,000 people a year, with four East End homes maintained by 270 volunteers.
"We've had people stay in excess of 18 months or 24 months with us," especially if treatment is lengthy and they live far away, notes Christie Knott, Family House executive director. "For those folks, even $40 a night or $50 a night can be prohibitive."
For the 27
th year, the Family House Polo Your Way Event (on Sept. 11, at Hartwood Acres) will raise funds "so that no one is turned away," she says. The day includes a vintage car display, boutique village and children's entertainment – plus, of course, a polo match between international clubs.
Don't think of it as an exclusive sport, unless you want to, Knott urges. "People can tailgate and bring their own picnic," she says – with or without the candelabra.
Author: Marty Levine
Source: Christie Knott, Family House
Image courtesy of Krol Media Associates LLC