New Trailer Will Provide People With Disabilities More Community Access
(From Blanchard Valley Center)
Blanchard Valley Center, the Hancock County Board of Developmental Disabilities, has made community access for individuals with disabilities much easier with the purchase of a trailer that will house a universal changing table.
The 25-by-14 trailer will give people with disabilities and their caregivers access to a clean, private space to address restroom needs.
“Sometimes it is difficult to understand the challenges associated with restroom care for someone with a disability,” said Blanchard Valley Superintendent Kelli Grisham. “We can walk into a restroom without giving it a second thought. However, someone in a wheelchair and their caregivers have a completely different set of challenges. This trailer and changing table will address those.”
The trailer offers a clean and dignified space for individuals who require assistance with personal care. For many individuals and families, the lack of appropriate facilities makes attending festivals, fairs and other events very difficult.
The trailer, ramp and universal changing table cost $32,799. Blanchard Valley Center was assisted in the effort by grants from Handbags that Help and The Community Foundation. The air-conditioned trailer will be stocked with sanitizing wipes, and caregivers will supply other personal hygiene supplies.
Blanchard Valley Center plans to use the trailer at such public events as the Flag City BalloonFest and the Hancock County Fair.
“People with disabilities want to be part of community events, too,” Grisham said. “This will give them that opportunity. At the end of the day, it’s about preserving an individual’s dignity and inclusion. We place a strong emphasis on inclusion and accessibility, and that effort will continue in the future with a laser focus. We very much appreciate the support and commitment of our community partners. We’re grateful to them for helping bring this tangible resource to Hancock County.”
For more information about the trailer or to request its use for an upcoming event, contact Blanchard Valley Center at [email protected] or 419.422.6387.