NEIT, Hospice join forces to make keepsake boxes for patients

WARWICK – Cabinetmaking took on a new twist recently at the New England Institute of Technology. In a partnership with Hospice VNA of Care New England, the students built wooden boxes to hold keepsakes for people facing serious illnesses.
New England Tech said patients may use the boxes to hold letters, records of life stories, photos, holiday souvenirs, jewelry or awards.
“The Hospice Memory Box can be used to facilitate communication and support the bereavement process, since it holds many precious memories, which can be a source of comfort in the days ahead,” said Nancy Roberts, CEO and president of VNA Care New England. “The Memory Boxes are a reality because of the talent and creativity that exists at New England Tech.”
Students in the school’s Cabinet Making 1 class constructed the boxes.
“Giving these students the opportunity to practice their technical skills while giving back to the community through this most worthwhile project has been very gratifying for everyone at New England Tech,” said Felix Carlone, chairman of the Building Construction and Cabinetmaking Technology Program.