CFCC Students and Welcome Home Angel transform Navassa home for McCain Family

NAVASSA, NC (WWAY) — Welcome Home Angel and interior design students from Cape Fear Community College worked together to create a safer and more livable space for the McCain family in Navassa. 

19 -year-old Matias McCain lives with Ring 14, a rare genetic disorder.  

Welcome Home Angel CEO, Craig Wagner says they transformed the space based on Matias’ needs. 

“It was really important for us to understand what his sensory needs were, so you will see in the space not only his love for Willy Wonka but a lot of bright colors and sensory stimulation that can connect him with his space really well,” Wagner shared.  

CFCC students led the project as part of their senior capstone. They included an adjustable swing and couch for Matias as well as a projector screen. Through the months long journey, they’ve enjoyed designing something meaningful as a team. 

“We just all worked as a team to make this happen,” Avery Thompson said excitedly. 

“It’s been all around just a great experience,” Miranda Rivas shared. 

 “I think it is amazing that we can do this and help out a family in need,” Toni Rivers  

Heather McCain says it feels like home again.  

“So, to have it refreshed like this, it’s like a reset, not just for our house but for our soul. It’s so nice to see our house looking like home again,” Heather McCain exclaimed. 

Bronson McCain feels some of the weight lifted off his shoulders.  

“I don’t even know how to say thank you over and over again. I’m just going to keep saying it. I really appreciate it because there have been some tough times. So, this is definitely a lift, a burden in life. Being able to just smile and be happy feels good,” Bronson McCain happily said. 

The team also transformed rooms for Matias’ siblings, designed to fit their likes and preferences. One room was Hello Kitty themed and was equipped with its own bathroom.