Wheelchair Accessible Home Built for Disabled Vet

posted on Dec 16 by Stacy in the Disability News, Wheelchair Accessibility category

Homecoming for Staff Sergeant Mike Downing presented a new set of challenges. Everyday tasks like climbing the stairs became difficult. Downing, a father of four, lost both of his legs in a roadside bombing explosion in Afghanistan in September of 2008. Homes for Our Troops stepped in to make his life easier. The organization has built 48 accessible homes for veterans since it was founded in 2004. They have another 33 under construction. Donations for construction come from organizations such as Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins, the homes are offered free of charge.

Staff Sergeant Downing’s new home will feature wider hallways, and doors which will allow him better wheelchair access. The kitchen will have lower cabinets, and the bathrooms will feature a roll-in shower. The Downing family is scheduled to move into their new home in March.