Center for Accessible Living Disability Resource Center

Independent Living at Home


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Housing Assistance & Nursing Home Transition

Our experienced staff can help you with:

Your housing rights
Applying for Section 8
Applying for Subsidized housing
Locating an accessible apartment
Locating affordable housing
Landlord/Tennant communication
Transitioning to independence in a community setting


Helping Individuals with Disabilities Transition to Independence

John signing lease with big smile

As Housing Program Manager I have many things about my job that I love. But nothing compares to transitioning someone out of a nursing home into the community. This story is not so unique but the man is. John has lived for the past couple of years at a Nursing Home. He fell about three years ago and broke his lower leg and ankle. He was told by the doctors that he would never walk on his own again. After two years in a Nursing Home and many hours of rehab, John not only walks but walks with out any assistive equipment.

I went to all the section 8 meeting with John and talked with him over the phone on numerous occasions. John just wanted to be out on his own again. The Center made his dreams come true through the Olmstead Program Vouchers. With the help of volunteers and Dismas workers to help move him, we were able to get him back into the community. The picture of him shows him on his first day at his new home signing his new lease. The saying "A picture can speak a thousand words." is so true here. John is beaming with joy that his dream of once again being on his own and independent had come true. Beside helping John this also helps the men at the Dismas House. With their help, they too can see that they are making a difference.

- Lee Ann Thomas


What is the difference between Subsidized and section 8 housing??

SUBSIDIZED HOUSING is where the housing complex owns the government subsidize. You apply at each location. Link to Subsidized housing list.

SECTION 8 is where the person owns the government subsidize. You can travel with this. The private landlord must accept section 8.

Section 8 housing list - a new list can be picked-up every Monday at the Vine Street office or view Louisville Metro Housing Authority.

Section 8 application - Call Center for one to be mailed out or go to Vine Street office for one.

Blue update form / Change of address form. For section 8 is used when you move from the original address on section 8 application.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING LIST- There is NO government help with rent involved. Call Center for a list to be mailed out.


Important Housing Numbers

Section 8 LMHA - Louisville Metro Housing Authority - 502-569-6060

Section 8 waiting list - 502-584-1704 (must have social security number to find out where you are on the section 8 waiting list).

LMHA Eighth Street Office - 502 569-3400. Senior Citizens housing run by the city.

SOCAYR- Spirit of Christmas all year round 638-9600 ext 110. Affordable housing.

New Directions - 502-589-2272. Affordable, subsidized housing.

KHC Kentucky Housing Corp. - 1-800-633-8896 Homeownership ext 222, down payment program DAP.

Park DuValle Home Sales - 502-515-1979 / 502-778-9255. Has program for low income and people with disabilities. You must meet their requirements and live there.

River City Housing - 502-587-6763. builds affordable housing for low/ moderate income families apartments.

HOP Home Ownerships Partners - 502-585-5451. Can help with budgeting and getting ready for home ownership. FREE.

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Rampbuilders Program

Kristen Webb on her new ramp

5/19/05
Re: Kirsten Webb

I went to this home to do my ramp inspection. Tracy Webb (Mother) directed me to the ramp in the back yard. In the back yard, I was greeted by a 4 year old boy who said “this is our new ramp” smiling as he ran down the ramp to a swing set located in the back yard. The young lad then said, “look what my sister can do,” as he smiled proudly.

Then, 6 year old Kirsten Webb came out with her walker with the most beautiful smile as she proceeded down the ramp to join her brother at the swing set.

Her parents told me that the ramp had changed their lives. Kirsten could now go outside and play for the first time. Then Kirsten came up to me, smiled, and said “Thank you very much!” Then she went back to playing and moving around the back yard. This is a perfect example of how much difference a ramp can make in peoples lives.

- John Leonard


Custom-Designed Home Access

The Rampbuilders Program has been providing custom-designed home access ramps and railings to persons with disabilities since the incorporation of the Center for Accessible Living in 1981. Whenever possible, ramps are provided at no cost to the recipient. Individuals with mobility impairments can safely enter and exit their homes, providing independence and opportunities for education, employment, and recreation. A ramp provides a very basic level of freedom so that persons with disabilities can make their own choices.

Our program has provided ramps to hundreds of individuals thanks to funding from sources that include or have included Louisville  Metro Government, Louisville Metro Council, Medicaid, and private donations.

Who is Eligible?

Anyone living in the Louisville Metro area who has a permanent mobility impairment. Eligibility may vary due to rules set by funding sources.

How Can I Apply?

Call the Center for Accessible Living and ask to speak to the Information and Referral Manager, who will collect some basic information. You will then be called to complete a telephone application and be mailed a more thorough follow up application.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Ramp?

Time to determine eligibility and to receive authorization varies, depending upon how quickly all paperwork is received from you and whether you live in a restricted area such as a flood plain or historical district, which sometimes requires extra paperwork and government review.

The number of persons already waiting for a ramp and the amount of funding available also greatly impacts the time it may take to get a ramp. Depending upon available funds, we may be able to furnish a ramp in as little as three months, or it may take up to two years. For that reason, it is best to get your paperwork in to reserve your spot on the list.

Who Builds or Installs the Ramps?

A reputable and experienced contractor or supplier builds or installs the ramps to code.

Who is Responsible for Care?

All maintenance is the responsibility of the ramp owner.

How Can I Help?

The Rampbuilders Program is always in need of funding. The average cost of a ramp is about $3,500.00. Every little bit helps, and donations are tax deductible. Please make your check out to the Center for Accessible Living with “Rampbuilders Program” on the memo line.

We greatly appreciate your support of independent living for everyone!

For more information or to make a donation, contact:

Rampbuilders Program
Center for Accessible Living
305 W Broadway, Suite 200
Louisville, KY 40202


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