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Low-income Albertans with mobility challenges will soon have access to significantly larger grants for home accessibility renovations, as the provincial government expands funding through the Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP).

The maximum annual RAMP grant has increased from $7,500 to $12,000 per person, while the lifetime maximum over a 10-year period has risen from $15,000 to $24,000. The expanded program will also allow eligible Albertans to receive funding for accessibility modifications in a caregiver's home.

The changes are intended to help more people remain safely and independently in their homes as the cost of accessibility renovations continues to rise.

"Albertans with mobility challenges deserve to feel safe and independent in their own homes," said Nathan Neudorf, Alberta's Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. "By increasing RAMP grants, we're helping more people afford the accessibility modifications they need so they can remain in the communities they call home."

Supporting Independence at Home

The Residential Access Modification Program provides financial assistance for permanent home modifications that improve mobility and accessibility. Eligible renovations include:

• Wheelchair ramps
• Stair lifts
• Door widening
• Accessible flooring upgrades
• Bath lifts and bathtub door inserts

The program supports a wide range of Albertans, including wheelchair users, seniors who rely on four-wheel walkers, and individuals living with progressive neurodegenerative conditions.

The province is investing $24 million through the Canada-Alberta Aging with Dignity agreement to fund the enhanced grants and expand access to the program.

Jacob McGregor, chair of the Premier's Council on the Status of Persons with Disabilities, welcomed the increase, saying the higher funding will help more Albertans participate fully in their communities while living safely at home.

For families already benefiting from the program, the impact has been life changing. Lisa Hennessey, whose daughter received a RAMP-funded home lift, said the modification has made everyday life safer and more manageable for their entire family.

Who is Eligible?

RAMP is available to low-income Albertans whose eligibility is determined by household income and property value. Funding can be used for modifications to either the applicant's residence or the home of a caregiver, helping ensure accessibility regardless of living arrangements.

The province currently provides approximately $4.7 million in RAMP grants each year, supporting around 800 Albertans. Officials say the expanded funding will allow even more residents to access the modifications they need to age safely and live independently.

For more information about the Residential Access Modification Program and eligibility requirements, Albertans can visit the Government of Alberta's housing and accessibility resources at www.alberta.ca/residential-access-modification-program.

(Source: Government of Alberta)