MEDIA: Crowdfunding for disability build as rates, costs rise
The rising costs of building, as well as interest rate growth, are threatening a building project for special needs accommodation, forcing the family to crowdfund.
Canberran author and mother, Leisa Williams, is trying to raise money for the extra needed to complete a build that would help her son, on the Autism Spectrum, live independently.
The special needs accommodation will also provide respite for carers or families of children living with a disability.
“The accommodation problem for people with disability is complex as their carers age, and sadly some find their way into the aged care or hospital system here in Australia,” she explains on her mycause fundraising page.
“It is not okay that families must fight so hard for their loved ones to have basic human needs met, i.e., safe, affordable accommodation.”
The Williams were funding the build themselves until they ran into “substantial cost overruns”.
“Unfortunately, the rising costs of building materials, labour, and interest rates have blown out the project's cost by an estimated AUD 150,000.”
Leisa spoke to the Canberra Times recently regarding the difficult situation.
Tuesday’s cash rate rise added to mounting financial pressure, being the sixth rate rise in a short period, exacerbated by heightened building and living costs.
“[W]e need to raise $150,000 to build the disability-friendly granny flat for respite and short-term rentals for caregivers and for us to stay and visit Justin.”
The Williams also hope to be able to fund the completion of two more respite rooms in their existing garage and say time is of the essence.
“Ideally, we need to raise the money by the 15th of December (or sooner) to take this project through to completion without delay.”
Justin Williams, Leisa’s adult son, was diagnosed with autism and developmental delay in 2003.
“He was 27 months old when we were told he would have the mental capacity of a 14-month-old and that he would never speak or progress beyond a toddler's ability.”
“Justin's goal is to build independent living skills to live independently in his home and work as a Pastor at Gateway Church, and he hopes to get a job in a local café.”
Justin had never lived out of his Canberran home.
“He needs 24/7 care to accomplish these goals until additional capacity is built.”
Check out other inspiring pages where people begin fundraising for their loved ones with different conditions or disabilities, or start your fundraising page by clicking the button below.