Write a commentFor people who suddenly develop mobility impairments, their home can quickly change from being a source of comfort to feeling like a prison.
And, for those currently living in a nursing facility, a ramp can be the missing link that allows them to return home.
"Without easy and safe access into their house, many people are unable to be safely discharged from nursing facilities,"said Kristin Rabideau, ARISE housing advocate/ramp coordinator. "The accessible ramps we provide not only mean that people are able to come home, it also restores their sense of independence and reunites them with their families."
Last year, ARISE built a ramp for a man who was living in a nursing facility but wanted to come home. Necessary amputation resulted in his having to use a wheelchair. The front steps of his house became a huge barrier that prevented him from being discharged. With a team of volunteers, ARISE was able to provide a ramp for him just in time for Easter. He was able to celebrate the holiday with his wife and family, in the comfort of his own home.
Support for the ARISE Oswego County Ramp Program is provided solely through donations from individuals and local businesses like Raby's Ace Home Center on Washington Boulevard in Oswego.
"The ARISE Oswego County Ramp Program is just great. We've been involved for many years," said Rob Raby, Manager of the Raby's Ace Home Center in Oswego. Inside the store, there are framed photographs of the many different ramps that were built through the ARISE program.
"Raby's has been such a valuable partner and we are so grateful for their active support. Our Ramp Program would not be possible without generous support from caring neighbors in the community," said Jim Karasek, ARISE manager of independent living services for Oswego.
ARISE and Ride for Ramps, the annual fundraising and community event, will take place June 8 at Fort Ontario to raise money for the program. In addition to the 5K run and motorcycle ride, there will also be a chicken BBQ, Rudy's Lakeside, kids' bike ride around the fort, music, food, and fun family activities. All proceeds from the event will be used to purchase construction materials to help Oswego County families regain access to their home.
To register or learn more about the program or event, visit http://rideforramps.org.
ARISE and Ride for Ramps is supported by EMPOWER Federal Credit Union, Relph Benefit Advisors, Haylor, Freyer & Coon, and Fulton Savings Bank. Additional support is provided by the Friends of Fort Ontario, Murdock's Bicycles & Sports, NewsChannel 9, Oswego Speedway, Precision Sign and Graphics, Rudy's Lakeside, Woodchuck Saloon, and Zink Shirts. The 5K Run is a partnership between ARISE and the Oswego YMCA.
