Vernita Saunders' Story: Home Repair on Chicago's South Side
South Side of Chicago
Vernita Saunders lives with mobility limitations caused by ongoing medical issues. She needed her bathroom to be accessible and safe, so she contacted the Illinois Department of Aging for help.
The department suggested places to turn, but she didn't know where to start. Then a friend referred her to Housing Opportunities and Maintenance for the Elderly (H.O.M.E.), and a home repair specialist installed grab bars in her bathroom.
For Ms. Saunders, aging in place starts with feeling comfortable in your own home. As she put it:
“We need to feel safe in our home.”
Ms. Saunders found help because a friend knew where to send her. A statewide home repair program would give every senior a clear place to start.
Finding Help Shouldn't Depend on Luck
Ms. Saunders found help through a friend. Your story can show legislators why every senior needs a clear path to home repair help. If you or someone you love needs repairs you can't afford, we want to hear from you.
