Rental subsidy client returns home after successful ADA equipment installation

A woman who was injured and broke her femur has returned home after receiving assistance from various agencies to install approved American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) equipment in her rental unit.

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The woman, who has asked to remain anonymous, was required to have a wheelchair ramp and shower bars for stability in order to be discharged from the hospital to return home. However, she did not have the financial means to pay for these items, and the owner of her rental unit was not obligated to provide them, although they gave permission for them to be installed.

Sarah Irwin, the woman’s rental subsidy case manager with CAPECO's Housing Stability program, contacted Dan Curtiss, CAPECO's Area Agency on Aging program manager, to find out what programs were available to help this client with the needed ADA equipment. It was determined that the Family Caregivers Program was the best option, but they faced a tight deadline of two weeks to complete the project.

Irwin then reached out to the landlord, Hermiston Property Management, who agreed to cooperate with the project and help find a contractor who could install the ramp and shower bars. The contractor was able to meet the ramp specifications and the time frame, despite some challenges such as the limited space and the need to build a platform for the ramp.

The woman also had to move some of her belongings to storage, which involved working with other agencies to find someone who could load and transport her items while she was in rehab. Irwin praised the collaboration and coordination of all the parties involved, saying that they made the project possible and helped the woman return home, before Thanksgiving, and remain housed.

The woman expressed her gratitude and relief, saying that she was happy to be back in her own home and continue her healing process. With the ADA equipment helping her feel more comfortable and independent, she appreciated the support and assistance she received from everyone.