Creating Safe, Accessible Homes for Individuals with Disabilities

Albertina Kerr - Portland, OR

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For youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), home is much more than a place to live—it is the foundation for safety, independence, and belonging. Albertina Kerr provides that foundation through 36 community-based residential homes across Oregon, serving approximately 150 youth and adults each year with the specialized, around-the-clock support they need to thrive.

Each home is intentionally located within residential neighborhoods, allowing residents to live as active members of their communities while receiving individualized support with daily living, medication management, behavioral health, mobility, and life skills. Residents build meaningful relationships, develop greater independence, and participate in their communities in ways that reflect their personal goals and abilities. Many live in these homes for years, making them true lifelong homes rather than temporary placements.

As residents age and their medical, mobility, and behavioral needs become more complex, the homes themselves must evolve to meet those changing needs. Many of Kerr's residences were built decades ago and require ongoing upgrades to remain safe, accessible, and functional for 4-hour care. Without regular investment, aging infrastructure can become a barrier to independence, safety, and quality of life.

Grant funding will help Kerr complete essential capital improvements that preserve the integrity of these homes while enhancing accessibility and safety. Planned projects include remodeling bathrooms for improved accessibility, replacing worn flooring, updating kitchens, installing railings, repairing decks and fencing, improving wheelchair access to walkways and driveways, replacing windows, and adding emergency generators and outdoor coverings. These improvements ensure residents can continue living safely and comfortably in homes designed to support their long-term wellbeing.

Beyond maintaining buildings, these investments strengthen the quality of care delivered every day. Safe, accessible homes reduce safety risks, support aging in place, promote independence, and provide staff with environments that better meet residents' evolving needs. Families also benefit from the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved ones are living in stable, well-maintained homes where dignity and person-centered care are prioritized.

JTMF is honored to support Albertina Kerr's commitment to creating safe, welcoming homes where youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live with dignity, build independence, and remain connected to their communities. By investing in these critical capital improvements, JTMF is helping ensure that Kerr's residential homes continue to provide stability, opportunity, and a true sense of home for years to come.