WS Chronicle

By Rachel Barron

In the last two years, Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County has partnered with the Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) Aging in Place program. The partnership enables Habitat to offer, at a very low cost, critical repairs and modifications for seniors in our target communities who otherwise could not afford them. This life-changing work allows residents to live more independently and remain safely and comfortably in their own homes.

One recent recipient of these services was Daisy Taylor, who is confined to a wheelchair. Ms. Taylor’s positive can-do spirit, along with her stories of how much fun she has with the local Red Hat Society, inspired everyone who worked on her house. The work included installing a new roof and lowering the kitchen sink to wheelchair height. Habitat staff and volunteers were touched to see how delighted Ms. Taylor was to easily wash her own dishes for the first time in years.

The Aging in Place program also allows students in WSSU’s health programs to gain meaningful experience working with the seniors. This win-win partnership is part of the Place Matters initiative, funded by the United Way, which is targeting 13 neighborhoods near the Smith Reynolds Airport. Habitat Forsyth is the United Way’s housing partner in the Place Matters initiative.

Rachel Barron is the owner of Next Level Communications.