Accessible Restroom Grants Available!

The Midland Area Community Foundation (MACF) has awarded a $20,000 grant to Disability Network Mid-Michigan (DNMM) from the Access to Recreation Endowment Fund.

“Disability Network Mid-Michigan is committed to increasing accessibility and inclusion throughout Midland County,” said Kelly Pelong, Executive Director of DNMM. “Many venues cannot be accessed or enjoyed by individuals and/or families if truly accessible restrooms are not available. This grant is a start to increasing the number of restrooms that are available to any user.”

This grant addresses a primary focus area of the Midland Area Community Foundation: enriching our community. DNMM will serve as fiduciary for processing payments for the purchase, acquisition and/or installation of equipment that provides access to restroom usage by a wide variety of users at prominent recreation venues.

Midland County’s Vision Statement is “Together-Forward-Bold: An exceptional place where everyone thrives.” Access to Community aligns with this vision statement while focusing on the inclusion of people with disabilities in the planning and building of an accessible and welcoming community.

PeLong added, “One in three families is directly impacted by disability. The availability of a restroom is an essential part of life and shouldn’t pose a barrier to accessing the wonderful amenities in this community, or any other. We hope this initiative serves as a benchmark for other communities to model and plan for in the future.”