For millions of people living with physical disabilities across the U.S., simple things like leaving the house or walking up front steps can be a massive challenge without the right home setups ¹ ². In North Carolina alone, CDC data shows that over 13% of adults live with a mobility disability that makes walking or climbing stairs super difficult ¹ ². Nationwide, more than 30% of low-income homes occupied by people with mobility needs don’t have basic accessibility features like wheelchair ramps, step-free entrances, or sturdy handrails ¹ ³. Without these upgrades, older residents and individuals with disabilities face serious risks of falling, getting injured, or feeling totally stuck inside ² ³.
In northeastern North Carolina, many rural counties deal with high rates of housing needs and an aging population ¹ ⁴. In these historic towns, many older homes were built decades ago without ramps or accessible entries, leaving steep steps and decaying wooden porches as major safety hazards ³ ⁴. Local families living on tight budgets often can’t afford expensive home repairs or custom ramps ⁴. Because of this, many community members end up stuck inside or have to rely completely on family members just to get out the front door safely ² ⁴.
This summer, HXP Builders are heading to the Outer Banks region to team up with a local nonprofit that specializes in disability access and hurricane structural recovery. Youth volunteers will work on job sites across local counties and surrounding areas to construct wheelchair ramps and wooden decks. Building these ramps directly gives local residents their independence back—giving community members a safe way in and out of their homes and bringing huge peace of mind to their families.