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Travis Roy Foundation Grant Program
The Travis Roy Foundation is dedicated to spinal cord survivors and research. Since its inception in 1997, the Foundation helps deserving applicants improve the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries. The funds awarded can help purchase wheelchairs, computers, installation of ramps, lifts and elevators plus a variety of adaptive equipment, vehicle and home modifications.
Recently one of our clients received a grant from the Foundation to widen the doors to accommodate his wheelchair and to install automated door openers so he can be safe and independent at home.
To learn more about the Travis Roy Foundation Grants click here.
Loan Program to Benefit People with Disabilites
New Jersey Citizen Action (NJCA) and PNC Bank developed the Self Reliant Loan program to assist people with disabilities in purchasing items that improve independence and accessibility in their daily lives.
The Self-Reliant Loan program offers personal unsecured loans to qualified individuals with various disabilities for a range of services that enable independent living that can include computers with adaptive software, kitchen and bathroom remodels for accessibility and ramps. In addition to the reduced interest-rate loan offer, PNC will award a $1,000 grant to borrowers who close on a Self-Reliant loan.
- Media Release: NJ Citizen Action and PNC Bank Highlight Self Reliant Loan and Grant Program to Benefit People With Disabilities — August 11, 2009.
- Media Advisory: PNC Bank and NJ Citizen Action highlight the Self Reliant Loan and Grant Program to benefit people with disabilities — August 6, 2009.
- Press Coverage: “PNC Bank Offering Loans To Improve Handicapped Accessibility” (New Jersey Newsroom – August 11, 2009).
If interested in applying with PNC Bank or for more information contact:
Artie Collins 973.639.7117 or email artie.collins@pnc.com
Nicole Bernstein is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist
A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) has been trained in the unique needs of the older adult population, aging in place home modifications, common remodeling projects, and solutions to common barriers.
The NAHB RemodelorsTM Council, in collaboration with the AARP, NAHB Research Center, and NAHB Seniors Housing Council, developed this program to provide comprehensive, practical, market-specific information about working with older and maturing adults to remodel their homes for aging-in-place.
What is aging-in-place?
According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), aging-in-place means remaining in one’s home safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level. It means the pleasure of living in a familiar environment throughout one’s maturing years, and the ability to enjoy the familiar daily rituals and the special events that enrich all our lives.
The team at Mobility recognizes the importance of doing an assessment with input from occupational and physical therapists as well as qualified health care professionals, and the significance of good design in making modifications that can transform a house into a safe, attractive, and comfortable home for life.
Waiving Construction Permit Fees to Promote Accessibility
Construction permit fees are charged by townships based on the value of your proposed renovations. In 1996, the state of New Jersey established a law that enables townships to waive permit fees related to renovations for accessibility. Each town is required to adopt an ordinance to establish this. If not already established in your town, you can write a letter to your mayor and request.
What Are Home Modifications?
Found this great fact sheet on The Eldercare Locator. Mobility Consulting & Contracting Co. can provide accessibility solutions for your living environment intended to increase ease of use, safety, security and independence.
WHAT ARE HOME MODIFICATIONS?
Home modifications are changes made to adapt living spaces to meet the needs of people with physical limitations so that they can continue to live independently and safely. These modifications may include adding assistive technology or making structural changes to a home. Modifications can range from something as simple as replacing cabinet doorknobs with pull handles to full-scale construction projects that require installing wheelchair ramps and widening doorways.
Read more here.