Molly’s House

This year marks 25 years since Molly’s House in Stuart was built to accommodate families in need of affordable housing while receiving outpatient medical treatment or visiting a loved one in the hospital.

Molly’s House is the realized dream of a Martin County girl named Molly Sharkey. She was only 12 years old when diagnosed with chronic myelocytic leukemia. Her family traveled the country in a desperate search for bone marrow donors and treatments.

The Sharkey family booked rooms at Ronald McDonald Houses, so they could afford to stay by Molly’s side as she endured treatments. Her experience sparked a passionate dream to build a similar house to accommodate families in need right here in Florida.

In 1992, Molly died courageously at age 18, leaving behind a miraculous journal of architectural plans to build Molly’s House.

In April of 1995, the property at 430 SE Osceola Street in Stuart was purchased. By August, Molly’s dying wish was realized, as it stands today, built entirely via donated materials and labor from our community.

Twenty-five years later, thanks to Deborah and Kevin Sharkey’s relentless love and community support, Molly’s House has accommodated over 30,000 guests throughout Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie County hospital systems –– especially Cleveland Clinic in Stuart. The local non-profit fundraises year round to subsidize stays for anyone who cannot afford the modest room charge.

So, it’s that time of year for everyone to break out your best polo outfit, derby hat, or fascinator, and show up in elegant support of Molly’s House: The 12th annual Molly’s House Polo Classic event will be held Saturday, March 5th, from noon to 4pm, at Port Mayaca Polo Club, presented by the Herold-Cadorette Family and sponsored by ECHO Fine Properties.

The VIP section offers prime viewing of the polo match and a world-class tented reception which includes a paella lunch and open bar. Patrons will also enjoy a car show, dressage, and “best hat” award.

Come prepared to participate in the halftime divot stomp – just like the beloved scene in the film Pretty Woman – whilst drinking champagne and toasting Molly’s House.

Port Mayaca Polo Club is located 53 minutes (37 miles) from downtown Stuart, and 53 minutes (49 miles) from Palm Beach Gardens. VIP tickets are $100 per person, and should be purchased online by March 3rd via MollysHouse.org or (772) 223-6659. At-the-door ticketing graciously accommodated. Additional donations are gratefully accepted.