Fundraiser for veterans house attracts more than 75 people
A month after veteran housing opened on State Road, fundraising is still ongoing.
Partners in Housing hosted a cocktail party on November 12 to continue fundraising for the O'Connor-Sisson House for Veterans. The three-hour event attracted at least 75 people, said Dartmouth Housing Authority's Connie Desbiens.
"What I was hoping to do was build up a bank for future services," said Desbiens. She said a part-time supportive services person will start at the 262 State Road housing location on December 1, but she would like to build services for tenants beyond that.
Attendees contributed to the cause via a $35 ticket donation and a silent auction that included wine baskets and adirondack chairs.
"I just want to say 'thank you.' We have accomplished something that, up until a couple of weeks ago, I didn't realize how much we've accomplished," said Desbiens. The O'Connor-Sisson House took eight years to complete, and includes nine fully furnished apartments for veterans.
Irene Sisson attended the event on her husband's behalf. She said that although Charlie Sisson passed six years ago this week, it has been a moving experience to see a project he was "so instrumental in undertaking" come to fruition.
"He had a love for veterans, and a love for elderly people too," said Sisson, who extended assistance and sold extra tickets for the fundraiser. She said ongoing fundraising is important to the house's success and for ensuring that veterans transition easily.