Homes renovated and made more accessible for residents

SHAWNEE, Kansas - In Johnson County, the non-profit organization known as "Friends of Johnson County Developmental Supports" has been trying to help integrate people with special needs into the community since 1990.

Their latest effort has resulted in some proud new residents.

Jerry Cummings and his brother Gene are happy in their new home in Shawnee.

"It's pretty. I love this house," Cummings said. "Nice TV...nice bedroom. I love this house. Nice kitchen, garage."

There are other features that make it just right for the brothers and others with developmental disabilities and physical challenges.

"This house features widened hallways and doorways. It has a beautiful accessible bathroom that features a roll in shower which is just terrific," said Janet Hoffman, executive director of Friends of JCDS.

In a couple of weeks Jerry and Gene will have a roommate. Chris Johnston is moving in Nov. 18.

"This is a real big change for Chris to live in a smaller home environment with other roommates. He's pretty excited about it," said Marcia Tammeus, his mother.

"Really it's just four roommates living together with a little bit of support from JCDS staff," Hoffman described the home when it’s at full capacity.

There's usually a staff person around for any help the residents might need, but the emphasis here is on independence.

"The whole idea of developing barrier free housing in the community is to help our folks become more integrated into our neighborhoods and help everybody build a community where everybody belongs and everybody can participate," Hoffman said.

This is the eleventh barrier free home that the friends of JCDS has renovated since they began in 1990.

"I call this my own home,” Cummings said.