Following Karen’s passing away, her family had an idea to provide an expense-free holiday for families suffering from cancer. From this initial idea, following discussions with family and friends, a larger plan was developed.
The idea of having a bach by the sea would give many families the opportunity to have a special holiday on an ongoing basis and following inspired discussion it was decided to form a Charitable Trust in Karen’s memory to achieve this outcome and thus the “A House for Karen” project was initiated.
The reason why the trustees decided to build a house as opposed to buying an existing bach was to create a unique place in Karen’s memory and so that the community, family and friends could all participate in some way. It would also allow the bach to be purpose-built.
The bach is now a house which sleeps 16 and is situated right on the beach, perfect with the Trusts vision.
This house was completed in May 2007, built entirely by contribution and voluntary work, The Master Builders Association, ECANZ, Master Plumbers and Painters and a variety of tradespeople and local business put their hands up and the first stage was built on New Plymouth foreshore.
From conception until this present date, 15 years later, the House has been helping with family’s in Taranaki to provide a place to get together at a time of shock and grief, where they can support, plan and be with each other.
Any proceeds or contributions will be part of repairs and maintenance to the roof.
