United Way of Whitman County has provided a grant of $2,000 to Palouse Habitat for Humanity to acquire tools for the Ramps & Rails Program. This program focuses on designing and installing custom accessibility ramps at no cost for eligible households.

The funding is intended to enhance the efficiency and safety of volunteer crews as they assist elderly residents, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

In 2024, the Ramps & Rails team completed 50 repair projects, and they are on pace to achieve another 50 projects this year.

Brendan Cassleman, the Site Supervisor, noted that the new tools will improve operational efficiency and help address equipment gaps, thereby minimizing delays and allowing crews to work continuously throughout the day.

The Ramps & Rails Program aims to eliminate barriers that hinder individuals from safely accessing their homes, facilitating hospital discharges, supporting aging in place, and promoting independence after an injury.