PURPOSE
The Accessible Faith Program is designed to assist eligible Chicago-area houses of worship to improve physical access that will enable greater participation by older adults in the congregation’s programs, services, and activities. Grants are awarded for up to 50 percent of a project’s total cost, to a maximum amount of $30,000.
The deadline for submission of your Application Package is June 1.
GRANT USE
- Construction projects: Installing elevators, platform lifts, or inclined platform lifts; constructing permanent ramps; or renovating restrooms for accessibility in existing buildings. These projects generally require a building permit.
- Purchase and installation of accessibility-related equipment such as assistive listening systems, automatic door openers, etc.
EXCLUSIONS
Grants support stand-alone accessibility improvements, not projects that are part of major new construction or overall large-scale renovation. Grants cannot be used for:
- Chairlifts because they do not provide accessibility for all people who have difficulty climbing stairs
- Used equipment because of the possible lack of required maintenance or warranty
- The purchase of accessible vehicles or individual mobility aids, such as wheelchairs or walkers
- Projects that are already completed
ELIGIBILITY
The faith-based congregation must be:
- A nonprofit organization that owns the facility where improvements will be made
- Located in these six Illinois counties: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, and McHenry Counties
- Offering programs beyond worship services that benefit older adults (age 65 or older)
- Able to demonstrate financial need as well as the ability to raise sufficient additional funds to complete the project