Lily’s journey at Sunshine began at the age of 11. She is now 20 and lives in one of our family care homes. As she blossoms from a school-aged teen into a young woman, her need for independence and self-assurance within her home only intensifies.
At Sunshine, she finds not only a residence but a supportive environment where her evolving needs are met with understanding and encouragement. Through school and vocational programs, Lily gains invaluable life skills and finds avenues for personal growth. Lily’s journey embodies the transformative power of providing individuals with developmental disabilities housing that cultivates both a safe haven and a nurturing community.
“I was 47 when breast cancer took my wife, and I found myself raising a young daughter with developmental disabilities, alone. After many years as a single parent, struggling to provide for my daughter, Sunshine opened its loving arms to provide a community for her, which I simply could not provide. It was an agonizing decision to let Lily move to another home without me, but I also knew that I was not losing her; rather, we were both gaining an extended family that would embrace us with love and a commitment to the highest quality care for Lily. As a long-time local partner with Sunshine Communities, I never thought my own family would be in need of the services they provide. I cannot think of any agency more worthy to support. I know my late wife would agree.” - Lily’s father, Phil
