Harry Finch 

Cromwell-based builder Derek Craig is a man on a mission to help 3-year old Harry Finch walk independently, and thanks to the first $25,000 Big Build Grant, every swing of Derek’s hammer will benefit Harry’s fund.

Born with cerebral palsy, Dunedin youngster Harry Finch has Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy in his leg muscles, making walking a very difficult and sometimes painful challenge. Recently accepted for life-changing surgery at St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri, Harry’s family must raise $150,000 to fund the trip and surgery, in the hope that Harry will have the best possible chance to walk, play and live life to the fullest.

Moved by Harry’s situation, and keen to make a practical and positive difference to the fundraising efforts of the Finch family, Derek has rallied his community and other tradies to help build two container houses which will be sold.

“I’m just so thrilled that now we can donate every dollar we make to Harry and his family, without having to worry about finding extra money to pay for materials, it really takes the pressure off so that I can focus on making these container houses awesome” said Mr Craig. “When I first heard about Harry I just couldn’t get it out of my head and I was determined to put my skills to good use, and it’s been incredible how many other contractors and suppliers, and now this amazing grant, have helped bring this dream to life.”

One 40ft container house features a kitchen, bedroom and bathroom while the other 20ft container can be used as a wing, with two bedrooms.