Rhode Island Livable Home Modification Program

A growing body of literature shows that home renovations such as handrails, chair lifts for stairs or roll-in showers  play a significant role in keeping people safely in their homes, active in the community and out of institutionalized care.

However, home modifications can prove challenging to afford on a limited or fixed income. This is  why the Rhode Island Livable Home Modification Program is an important resource to be aware of.  The Livable Homes Modification Grant Program is administered by the Governor’s Commission on Disabilities. It helps Rhode Islanders with disabilities and seniors to access money for home modifications that help them maintain independence – allowing folks to age in the community safely. For home accessibility projects such as an indoor chair lift, outdoor ramps or an accessible bathroom, the state will reimburse 50% of the costs up to $5,000.

If you or someone you know is considering retrofitting a home to support capacity to age in place, please consider applying for this money that is earmarked for people who are 65+ or those with disabilities. The chances of being accepted are strong (95% of applications are approved) and the determination process is quick (applications are approved or denied within 3 business days). Alyssa Gleason is the coordinator for the Livable Home Modification Program. For additional information or questions about the application, contact her via email at Alyssa.Gleason@gcd.ri.gov or call 462-0103. For more information on eligibility requirements and allowable modification projects click HERE. 

Representative Deborah Ruggiero, who cosponsored the program, wrote an informative opinion piece for Patch worth checking out.