STATUS: Open

SERVICE AREA: Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee Counties, Michigan. MI Options Counseling is also available statewide.

CLIENTS SERVED: Children and adults with disabilities, people experiencing age-related limitations, family members, caregivers, and individuals seeking help with independent living. Some programs have specific geographic, financial, or other eligibility requirements.

DESCRIPTION: disAbility Connections is a nonprofit Center for Independent Living that helps people with disabilities live independently and participate fully in their communities. The organization provides advocacy, independent living skills, peer support, information and referrals, transition assistance, assistive equipment, and accessibility programs.

SERVICES / PROGRAMS:

• Information & Referral: Provides disability-related services and community resources, including healthcare, transportation, housing, and assistive products.
• Individual & Systems Advocacy: Helps individuals protect their rights, access needed resources, and address barriers to community participation.
• Independent Living Skills & Peer Support: Offers individualized instruction and peer connections to help people build self-sufficiency and manage daily life.
• Community Transitions: Helps eligible individuals move from nursing facilities or hospitals into community living by developing plans and locating necessary supports.
• Residential Ramps: Provides accessible ramp construction for eligible individuals. There is a Percentage Copay toward material costs, with payment arrangements available for those who need them.
• Durable Medical Equipment Loan Closet: Offers equipment for loan or purchase at affordable prices, including wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs, commodes, canes, crutches, power wheelchairs, scooters, bed rails, and other supplies. Financial assistance is available to qualifying low-income residents of Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee Counties.
• Fix-dis Equipment Repair: Offers durable medical equipment repair services; contact the organization to confirm which items and repairs are currently available.
• MI Options Counseling: Provides person-centered guidance to people exploring long-term supports and services, including help with daily activities, housing, transportation, employment, specialized care, and long-term care options. Available statewide.
• Youth Pre-Employment Training: Helps young people with disabilities develop skills for employment and transition to adult life.
• Access for All: Promotes accessibility and inclusion in local communities through awareness, partnerships, and identification of accessible locations.

RAMPS:

• Types: Aluminum wheelchair accessibility ramps constructed at residential entrances.
• Availability: Jackson County residents with physical disabilities requiring a ramp. Household income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. Applications open in January, with approximately 6–8 ramps constructed annually between May and October. Approved applications are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to volunteer availability and weather conditions.
• Cost: Applicants pay 25% of ramp material costs, with $100 due before construction and the remaining balance due within 10 days of invoicing. A 12-month payment arrangement may be requested if needed.
• Requirements: Applicants must own the residence, have a qualifying long-term lease (at least five years), or demonstrate a history of long-term occupancy. Written landlord approval is required when applicable. A physician’s prescription or medical statement specifying the need for a ramp is required.

• How to Apply for a Ramp: Download the 2026 Ramp Application and submit it with proof of household income, medical documentation, and other required materials. Applications are not reviewed until all documentation is received. Call 517-782-6054 or email danielle@disabilityconnect.org for submission instructions and assistance.

HOW TO APPLY: Call the office or visit the website for the application process for the program you need.