In less than five months, an incredible show of community spirit has turned a vacant block in Wangaratta into a five-bedroom home for four children orphaned by a tragedy and their grandparents.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 4 Kids and Carers Future Foundation was formed in the wake of Anzac Day 2017, when Ora Holt was killed by her husband.
Chairman Jason Reid said the Bright-based charity had raised more than $100,000 when Cavalier Homes approached them to provide support.
“Initially we just wanted to advocate and raise as much as we could for them,” he said.
“When Cavalier told us what they wanted to do, I had only just been to visit their current situation and realised they certainly needed a magnificent new home.
“As the kids get older, we want to take a bit of a backward step in terms of fundraising – I think that’s important.
“We don’t want to be in a position where the kids are seen as any different to their mates.
“We’ll be working heavily in the background to keep funds coming and to advocate on their behalf.”
A five-bedroom house with two bath and two living areas was completed on Friday, built on land secured on Wangaratta-Yarrawonga Road at a discounted price.
“Through lots of people’s skillets, and trials and tribulations along the way, we’ve been able to complete this house,” Mr Reid said.
“It’s been emotional for everyone involved in the build.
“The random acts of kindness we’ve seen have just been amazing, but it also brings back the fact they’ve been through a horrific tragedy.”
On Saturday evening, 160 people who had contributed to the project were officially thanked, each person receiving a card written by the kids.
Graham ‘Stretch’ Everitt was given a special mention for his dedication.
Despite not knowing the family, Mr Everitt spent 10-hour days co-ordinating the build and even “had ducting going in before the screws were in on the roof”.
“We’ve had retired tradies here who have been on site from the start to the end of the job, had four days off and done all of it to nothing – I’d like to thank their families for giving them up,” Mr Reid said.
“I’d like to thank the whole community.
“The kids haven’t seen the house in its current form – I think they know there’s a pool – and I think they’ll be excited to get in here and call it home.
“It will be an amazing day when that happens.”
- Receive our daily newsletter straight to your inbox each morning from The Border Mail. Sign up here