ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – A $7.5 million grant program will give those living with disabilities in Illinois the chance to live on their own, rather than have to move into an expensive care facility.

The Home Modification Program was announced Monday by Rep. Maurice West along with the Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living and RAMP. The program provides funds for home modifications that allow people to stay in their homes. Lawmakers say the program will help relieve stress on nurses and caregivers and is an overall lower expense for taxpayers.

Rep. West says he’s seen a need for programs like this in the Rockford community.

“Being a member of clergy, growing up in the church, I’ve seen many people who had to leave their homes because they could not assist themselves. They didn’t have the proper railing, they didn’t have the proper ramp to get down from their porch. So they had to go into an assisted living facility, sometimes at their consent, sometimes at the behest of their family,” West said.

Those living in Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson or DeKalb counties can reach out to RAMP to apply for help through the program. Those living in Ogle or Lee counties can apply through the Northwestern Illinois Center for Independent Living.

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