Meet our newest home donors

We are so excited to welcome a “Gingerbread House” into our portfolio of donated vacation homes! Meet Tim Correira and Caitlin Cunningham. They purchased their very own gingerbread "cottage" in 2023, just five months after Caitlin's mom passed away from cancer. This amazing couple got connected with Vineyard Havens and fell in love with our mission. Tim was born on the island and is well acquainted with its magic. Caitlin was touched by cancer through her mother’s diagnoses, treatment and loss and understands deeply the value of respite during cancer.

Tim and Caitlin enjoying a Martha’s Vineyard sunset.

Homes like Tim and Caitlin's are unique to the island - a product of history and architecture that mimicked summer tents that were erected in Oak Bluffs in the 1800’s. Described as “gothic” and “colonial” at the same time, some of these homes have undergone renovations to meet modern times, while still retaining historic charms of swooping rooflines and front porch lifestyle.

After their own renovation was complete, Caitlin and Tim hosted their very first Vineyard Havens' family in 2024. When we asked them what their biggest wish was for cancer patients and their families while on vacation in their home, Caitlin told us:

“I hope that they feel better for a little while. They won’t forget they have cancer for a minute…and if you’re the person loving someone who is sick, you really don’t forget. But, I hope it’s about finding something quiet. Finding something joyful, finding something peaceful; going for a swim, just feeling good for a little bit. "Those of us who are so privileged to have space can make it possible for others to heal. That really is the most important gift you can give someone. "We’re really glad we’re doing it and we’re going to keep doing it. It’s so easy.”

Take a peek at the thoughtful transformation of Tim and Caitlin’s gingerbread house on Instagram @booming_ben.