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Habitat Home Provides Accessibility for Eldest Fraboni Son

When Phil Fraboni and his three children moved into their new Habitat home in Hamilton in 2009, the dedication ceremony was a little different than most. Phil's oldest son, Thomas, did the honours—opening the door not with a key but instead with a remote control device.

Thomas has cerebral palsy. While the Frabonis' previous rental house had some accessible features, there wasn't room for him to turn his wheelchair around in the bedroom he shared with his brother, and many everyday kitchen items were out of reach.

The remote that Thomas Fraboni used at the dedication ceremony to open the door to

their just completed Habitat for Humanity home

Independence and Freedom = Father's Relief

The family's new home gives Thomas almost complete independence and freedom. He has his own room—with plenty of turning space. Ramps lead to both entrances; the spacious bathroom is fully wheelchair accessible; and the kitchen was built with low countertops, custom cabinets and a wall oven for Thomas' convenience.

"It's such a relief knowing [Thomas] can get around the house without any problems. And now we as a family have a place to call home, somewhere we hope to be for a very long time". – Phil Fraboni, new Habitat for Humanity homeowner

Because of the accessible layout of their home, which Phil helped with in consulting and building,

Thomas is able to assist with family chores, such as food preparation and laundry

Phil Overwhelmed by Community Response – Helps Design Home According to Family's Needs

"It's pretty phenomenal to have had a hand in building our own house," Phil said. He was on site during construction whenever he could be, consulting with the builders about his family's needs.

"Our neighbours have quickly become friends and go out of their way to lend a hand". – Phil Fraboni

Phil Fraboni noted that the community's support during and since construction has been overwhelming

Raising a Family as a Single Father – a Part of His Wife Lives on in Their Home

Phil's wife, who passed away three years ago, was instrumental in getting the family involved with Habitat for Humanity. Phil says a part of his wife lives on in their home. "I think Habitat really knocked it out of the park with this one," he said.