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Independence Inc. asks AHAB to fund accessibility modifications for low‑income households
Summary
Independence Inc. told AHAB it has completed 45 accessibility projects over five years and seeks funds to serve approximately 15 more households with ramps, accessible showers, ADA‑height toilets and doorway widening. The program serves primarily owner‑occupied single‑family homes and people at or below 30% AMI.
David Brown, core services manager at Independence Inc., described an established accessible housing program that makes home modifications for seniors and people with disabilities.
Brown said the program serves both renters and homeowners (up to 80% AMI but primarily households at or below 30% AMI), provides accessible entrances, accessible bathrooms and circulation to vital areas, and contracts with qualified accessibility contractors. Since the program began Brown said Independence Inc. has completed 45 projects citywide with a median client age of 63 and an average household AMI of about 36%.
Examples he described include switchback ramps, replaced unsafe ramps, accessible showers with detachable showerheads and grab bars, ADA‑height toilets and widened doorways. He said the program’s work improves safety and quality of life: a client who stopped showering regularly said after a new accessible shower she resumed bathing and “the water felt wonderful running over my skin.”
Brown said Independence Inc. maintains a project list, screens applicants for income and disability‑related needs, solicits bids, coordinates contractors and performs final inspections. The presenter asked AHAB to fund roughly 15 households through the proposed award and said the work preserves affordable housing by keeping residents in existing units.
