Residents of Franklin Court Assisted Living enjoyed an official Welcome Home Celebration on Wednesday, March 20, three months to the day after a fire and corresponding deluge of water from sprinklers damaged the facility.

Calling it “a very happy ending to a very difficult journey”, Franklin Court Administrator Angela Cabral expressed heartfelt gratitude that all the residents and staff were safe and unharmed.

“We are grateful for the incredible support and dedication shown by the Bristol and local communities,” Cabral said. “The kindness, generosity, and volunteer spirit have significantly impacted the lives of our residents, providing comfort and a sense of belonging. We have received numerous donations and gifts to help our residents; their contributions have not only enhanced the quality of life for them but also strengthened the communal bonds that make Bristol a wonderful place to live and work.”

At the event, Cabral thanked many members of the community by name, including the Bristol Fire Department, especially Chief DeMello and Deputy Knapman, the BFD Ladies Auxiliary (Jennifer Mancieri, Rayona Clemens, Kelly Medeiros) and the entire Bristol Police Department who came to help that night. “Their incredibly quick response resulted in saving the lives of over 80 elderly and disabled residents, staff and visitors,” said Cabral. “Their bravery and swift action exemplify our community's dedication to everyone's safety and well-being.”

She was also thankful for the efforts of Dawn Lewis, Alysia Mihalakos, and Autumn Bishop from the RI Dept. of Health, RI Healthcare Emergency Management, RI Center for Emergency Preparedness and Response. She thanked the “very generous and hospitable hosts” at other facilities that helped take in some of the Franklin Court residents: the RI Veterans Home, including Administrator Paul Murgo, Nursing Director Bill Camara; as well as Tim Farias and Lee Allaire from Dawn Hill and Silver Creek. She thanked Tom Carroll and staff at Alert Ambulance for transporting residents safely to their temporary housing and back home.

Cabral also thanked Paul LaFleur from Andrade Insurance, Town Administrator Steve Contente and Town officials, the EBCDC Board, and Arlene Vacchelli (resident Theresa Rose’s daughter) for creating beautiful cakes replicating Franklin Court for the event — and last but not least, she thanked Coralia Braga, a friend of resident Marilyn Mason, for her generosity in sponsoring the whole celebration.

“The success of our facility and the safety of our residents are testaments to the community's unwavering commitment to fostering an environment of care and respect for our elders and disabled persons,” Cabral said.