After multiple falls—and broken ribs—Ken knew his home wasn’t safe anymore.

When he saw an ad in the paper about Goodhue County Habitat’s Home Revitalization program for Aging in Place, he gave the number a call right away.

Ken moved to Red Wing in 1988 and bought his house in November of 1994. Over the years, he built a life that included serving in the Army and owning a bait and tackle store for eight years.

Between the stairs of entry into his house, the raised side into the bathtub, and the laundry machines in the basement, his home couldn’t keep up. He fell because of his old shower, many times.

Through its Home Revitalization program, Goodhue County Habitat helps homeowners make critical safety improvements—like ramps, accessible bathrooms, and main-level laundry—so they can continue living safely in their homes.

Today, Ken has a new ramp at the entrance to his home. He says, “Habitat put that in for me October and November of this year. It has really been a godsend for me.”

He also has a new walk-in shower and main level laundry machines. “I don’t have to worry so much about falling. The last two times I fell, I broke a couple of ribs. I haven’t fallen since. That makes it really nice.”

“No one likes to ask for help, but if they get help—and help paying for it—it makes it really nice.”

Goodhue Habitat is able to do Home Revitalization projects like Ken’s because of grants and generous donations, offering these home improvements for a fraction of the cost.

“That’s what made it affordable— them helping me,” Ken added.