Community Resources Partner to Help a Person in IRIS Build an Accessible Home

By: Kim Markul, IRIS Consultant

 

In the summer of 2013, Michelle Bolton and her family were chosen as a recipient of a Habitat for Humanity home. Michelle would regularly give me updates on the progress of the project. Habitat has two design layouts for their homes; Michelle shared with me some concerns about how she would be able to access her children’s bedrooms which would be located in the lower half of home. Michelle is doesn’t use stairs and this would have caused safety and health concerns.

 

As her IRIS Consultant, I referred Michelle to Options for Independent Living so they could assist as an advocate to Michelle. Options for Independent living, Habitat for Humanity, and I met on multiple occasions to design and have a home built that was accessible and safe for Michelle to live in and to move around more independently. One year later, her home is complete and her and her family will be enjoying their first Christmas in their new home! This story shows that with the support of multiple community resources, people can accomplish anything.

 

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