In order to improve the quality of life and accessibility of homes for individuals with disabilities, Ability360 is now accepting applications for the upcoming cycle of their Scottsdale Home Accessibility Program, known as SHAP.

The program has been funded by the city of Scottsdale, according to a press release.

The on-going program provides no-cost improvements to homes, including the installation of ramps and grab bars, widening doorways, replacing standard toilets with raised models, and more.

“Safety is a significant concern for SHAP recipients and their families,” said Ability360 President and CEO Christopher Rodriguez. “These modifications can save members of the community hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars, and make their home safer and more accessible without the fear of trying to make upgrades on a fixed income.”

Working with the Scottsdale Home Accessibility Program, the program will make services available to four Scottsdale residents in order to improve home access and safety while increasing the overall number of accessible units in the city.

Through the partnership with SHAP, homeowners and renters in complexes with less than eight units will be eligible for up to $12,000 in modifications, and renters in complexes with more than eight units will be eligible for up to $2,000 in modifications, the press release stated.

Applications for the program began review on July 1. An interest form can be submitted online and Ability360 staff will follow up after the program begins.

According to the American Housing Survey, approximately one-third of dwellings have level one accessibility features such as step-less entry, an entry-level bathroom and bedroom, or an interior elevator to access those rooms.

Less than 5% of units can accommodate level two or higher.

Eligibility requirements include having a significant disability where the client will benefit from home modification, have a verifiable Scottsdale residence, be a homeowner or a renter with a minimum one-year lease and signed release from the landlord agreeing to the proposed modification, and verification of income for each member of the household as required by the city.

Applicants will undergo a pre-qualification and in-home assessment before any work begins. Once approved, Ability360 will work with licensed contractors to ensure high-quality modifications are done in a timely manner.

Referrals for the program are accepted by phone, online, by email at info@ability360.org, or in-person at the Ability360 campus. The organization cross-refers with other organizations and programs to assist in meeting various client needs.

To learn more about SHAP, including scope of services and full eligibility requirements, call 602-296-0536 or visit ability360.org.