Austin Veterans Gain Independence Thanks to Texas Ramp Project
AUSTIN, Texas – This Veterans Day, local veterans are experiencing renewed freedom thanks to the Texas Ramp Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building ramps for individuals with mobility challenges. Since 1985,the organization has constructed over 31,000 ramps across Texas,providing safe home access at no cost to clients.
For 86-year-old Air Force veteran Tom Cook, who served 18 years, a ramp built by a church group from Houston has been life-changing. “It changed my life a whole lot because the ramp helps me out because I use a walker,” Cook said. He is one of five veterans who have received ramps from the Texas Ramp Project this year alone.
The Texas Ramp Project addresses a critical need, as even a few steps can present a notable obstacle for those using walkers or wheelchairs. Referrals typically come from healthcare workers identifying individuals struggling with home access. Randy Kerkman, the Austin Central Region Coordinator, noted that volunteers in Travis and Bastrop counties build roughly 100 to 115 ramps annually.
The organization relies on donations from churches,community groups,and local foundations,with each ramp costing an estimated $800 to $900 to build. Kerkman emphasized the emotional impact of the ramps,stating,”You can see it in their eyes-the freedom they have now to move in and out of their homes.”
As the Texas Ramp Project approaches its 40th anniversary, it continues to expand its services across a 10-county area around Austin, divided into five regional sectors.Those interested in volunteering or donating can find more details at www.texasramps.org.
