by James Coulter
A new pilot program aims to help Lake Wales residents with disabilities stay safe and independent in their homes.
At their regular meeting on Tues, Jan. 13, the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board voted unanimously to reallocate $50,000 from its Housing Rehabilitation budget to launch the Housing Opportunities for Mobility and Equity (HOME) program.
Assistant City Manager Deena Drumgo described the new program as a way to provide “accessibility‑focused home repairs and modifications” for residents in the Lake Wales CRA district.
“The program enables individuals with mobility, vision, hearing, or cognitive challenges to age in place by making their homes safer and more accessible,” she wrote. “By funding modifications like ramps, grab bars, widened doorways, and non-slip flooring.”
This program would benefit the nearly 11.8 percent of Lake Wales residents, or roughly 2,100 people, who live with a disability, according to recent U.S. Census Bureau data.
Drumgo mentioned how her own brother was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, which confined him to a wheelchair, and how many of her other relatives also had muscular dystrophy, requiring modifications to their homes.
“Sometimes, I think the disabled community is overlooked,” she said, emphasizing the program’s potential impact.
Commissioner Carol Gillespie asked if people with disabilities applying for the program would be required to have some relation with the home or property owner. Drumgo clarified that applicants will need approval from the property owner before any work can begin.
Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson praised the initiative as another sign of momentum in local housing efforts, citing past successes with legacy housing and fine‑forgiveness programs.
“It is huge for the benefit of our citizens,” he said. “We are on a roll.”
Commissioner Keith Thompson added that mobility challenges following his knee surgery opened his eyes to the daily barriers many residents face.
“Whether permanently or temporarily, your life changes,” he said. “I think it is going to be overall a net positive for our community and people who are struggling with mobility.”
