More Help, Sooner for People Who Use a Wheelchair

Nova Scotians who need help making their homes wheelchair accessible can get more money, sooner thanks to changes to the province's Access-A-Home program.

"We are investing more and improving the Access-A-Home program so that Nova Scotians can make their homes more accessible for themselves or loved ones," said Judy Streatch, Minister of Community Services. "We recognize that people with disabilities may have mobility challenges given the structure of their homes. We are pleased to help people live more comfortably in their own homes."

Regulation changes to the Housing Act include a number of Access-A-Home program enhancements that will make the program easier to access, increase income limits so more people can access the program and increase the amount of assistance a household can receive. The program budget has also been doubled for this fiscal year.

To qualify for assistance through the Access-A-Home program, individuals must be the occupant of a housing unit and use a wheelchair or have a family member who uses a wheelchair for mobility. Individuals who will need to use a wheelchair in the near future may also qualify for the program. Program assistance may include adding a wheelchair ramp, widening doorways and making bathrooms wheelchair accessible.

Previously, Access-A-Home program applications were made only after an individual became disabled. The program has been changed so people who will require a wheelchair in the future because of the progressive nature of their condition, can apply for assistance sooner.

"When a person becomes injured or ill and requires the use of a wheelchair, one of their major concerns is will their home be accessible," said Anne MacRae, executive director, Nova Scotia Disabled Persons Commission. "These changes to the Access-A-Home program will greatly assist people to make the necessary modifications to their homes."

Access-A-Home program improvements include an increase to income limits to $39,000 from $30,000, allowing a greater number of Nova Scotians to benefit from the program. The maximum amount of assistance will increase to $5,000 from $3,000 to keep up with the cost of home improvements. The Access-A-Home program budget has increased to $200,000 from $100,000 this year.

The Department of Community Services offers a suite of home-repair programs that help low-income Nova Scotians make repairs that address health and safety issues, including two programs targeted for persons with disabilities. About 2,500 Nova Scotia households received help to make repairs to their homes last year.

Information on housing programs is available at local housing services offices or on the Department of Community Services website at www.gov.ns.ca/coms .