New England Homes for the Deaf (NEHD) has launched a wish granting program for its Deaf, Deaf-blind and hard of hearing elder residents, The Dreams Come True Project. NEHD set out to help residents discover and in some cases, rediscover their life long wishes, with the belief that you are never too old to dream. “Enhancing our residents’ quality of life, and helping them to find joy are the project’s major goals.” “Their smiles are infectious.” -Shelley Silverman, Executive Director.

The Dreams Come True project’s first participant, Doug Sager, a resident in the facility’s rest home was able to ride aboard a schooner, thanks to the generosity of the Schooner Thomas E. Lannon and Beauport Ambulances both of Gloucester who provided the boat ride and transportation respectively. “It was a beautiful day to be out on the water,” said Sager, who arrived home to the facility, with a big smile, after a day at sea.

NEHD has several plans in the works to make the wishes of other residents a reality. For more information about NEHD’s Dreams Come Ture Project, or to make a contribution, please contact Shelley Silverman at ssilverman@nehd.org (978-774-0445 ext. 275).