The Arc of the South Shore Announces Smart Home Initiative; First of Many Smart Homes to Be Celebrated in Ribbon-Cutting January 26

HINGHAM and WEYMOUTH  : The Arc of the South Shore, a family-oriented, community-based non-profit providing information, referrals, and community programs for individuals with disabilities, recently announced it is undertaking a plan to convert 10 of their current group homes into “smart homes” with updated technological features to provide more independence and empowerment for their residents.  The Arc of the South Shore will officially unveil its first recently renovated residential group home and prototype of this smart home initiative on Broad Street in Weymouth on Thursday, January 26th.

The $1 million renovation project has updated and modernized the five-bedroom dwelling by incorporating smart home technology to remotely automate many everyday tasks via internet connection. Smart home features in place at the two-floor residence include external high security cameras, a ring camera, voice-activated lighting, hands-free faucets, and full-speed internet – all features that will allow the residents to exercise self-determination while fostering independence and safety while improving both their quality of life and living space.

Patrick Gallagher, facilities director with The Arc of the South Shore, oversaw the $1 million renovation. Project sponsors included The Flatley Foundation and the Knights of Columbus.

“The five gentlemen who will call this beautifully renovated house their home will have full benefit of  Smart Home technology, which will allow them to take ownership of everyday tasks with the support of voice- or computer-activated devices, cameras, sensors, and more,” said Abigail Parrilla, CEO of The Arc of the South Shore.  “We look forward to more future unveilings as we bring these features to more of our residents over the coming months and years!”