Matthew House may look like any other home when you drive down this residential street in Auburn yet, as soon as you walk in the door you realize that this is a truly special place. The house is a two bed, not-for-profit, non-denominational home for people who are terminally ill and who for a variety of reasons, can no longer remain in their own homes. Hospice of the Finger Lakes provides residents with medical management, while volunteers and staff provide skilled compassionate care and companionship, all working together to help each resident complete their end of life journey with dignity and comfort.
What makes Matthew House so distinctive and welcoming is the special touches that staff and volunteers put forth to make each resident as comfortable as possible. Fresh baked cookies are in the kitchen and residents can watch birds and squirrels visit the birdfeeders outside their windows. Each furnished suite creates a comfortable, private space for a terminally ill resident and visiting loved ones, with touches of home sprinkled throughout.
One resident’s family said, “Thank you so much for your kindness and care for the five weeks my mother lived at Matthew House. As Mom’s health deteriorated it was comforting to know she was shown respect. You made her feel special by doing her nails, hair, and keeping her clean. Mom was spoiled under your care…and she knew it!”
Staff and volunteers of Matthew House have the unique privilege of becoming family to residents and their loved ones. Executive Director Angela Ryan, LMSW remarks, “Matthew House is a vibrant rainbow, created by a generous community, volunteers of all ages, individuals, and foundations along with churches and businesses. It is amazing to witness all the creative ways in which people have been inspired to contribute gifts of talent, time, skills, and of course funding.”
Matthew House relies solely on the generosity of donors because it does not receive government aid, insurance reimbursement, or fees for its services. Residents are not charged for their care. Since 2012, Matthew House has partnered with us to manage its endowment and administer planned gifts. If you would like to learn more about how to make a planned gift (including IRAs, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, life insurance, bequests, etc.) to Matthew House or its endowment fund, we can assist you with this.
It feels like home because it is – home for the residents who come to Matthew House to reach the end of their life in peace and dignity.
