Dad's new apartment!

Hey gang!

With the crazy and often depressing year we’ve all just had I’m happy to share a bit of good news. After about a year of diligent and dogged efforts to try and get dad into one of the local housing programs—and expedite his position in line—I’m happy to say we were just notified that he’s been accepted for an apartment right around the corner from where he currently is. Not only that, but this adorable charming 1bed apartment is really, really nice; spacious, first floor/handicapped accessible, updated with central air and nice big kitchen and bathroom, and with these beautiful large windows that overlook the Ipswich river… it’s scenic and pretty and almost too good to be true. Not only that, but the apartment is directly across from the Ipswich senior center, which provides grab-and-go meals, travel to and from appointments (if needed), social events and so many other things… and it’s all within 15’ of his front door. Dad is thrilled, he keeps talking about it and the things he’d like to do when he moves in, like possibly get a cat, and read books by the window.

What’s great about this apartment is he can be in there for as long as he wants. Since the rent is a portion of his Social Security it will always be covered and he’ll always have a safe little place that’s all his own. After the rough time Dad’s had these past 7 years he really deserves it, and this is a true blessing for him (and all of us).

What I wanted to ask you all: since dad has been shuffling around the past few years he doesn’t currently have much in the way of furniture. This year, I was thinking it might be nice if we all chipped in a little to help him get a few important things he’ll need so he’s comfortable and has a place he can feel proud of. With Covid and everyone limiting get-togethers (and probably gift giving) I figured this might be a sensible gift option, since it can be done from a distance and easily online. It’s also a perfect gift in the true holiday spirit; all of us coming together to help a family member get back on their feet. Maybe we can devote any gift giving we would normally do for each other (that hasn’t already been done) to funding a little nest account for Dad?

I figure a bunch of stuff can be bought secondhand; from craigslist, FB marketplace, etc., to maximize whatever funds we’re working with. I can coordinate buying everything and getting a moving truck to pick it all up. Some of the more pressing items would be a bed, couch, table, sitting chair, and some book shelves, possibly a TV—and like I said all 2nd hand, Dad probably doesn’t need any of these things to be brand new.

I have links below so you can see a video of the apartment, and the outside river view. I figure after we get everything and set dad up I’ll take another video of his cool new furnished house and distribute it to everyone so you can see how what your awesome contributions bought : )

Check out the two links below:

https://vimeo.com/489096736

https://vimeo.com/489097296

Thank you everyone, you guys are all the best I love you all. Merry Merry Xmas : )