For Jason Wade, a resident of West Point, Georgia, home has always been a place of resilience and strength. But over time, the very space that provided him comfort became a challenge. Having used a wheelchair for more than 25 years, Wade faced growing obstacles—unstable flooring that posed a fall risk and a bathroom setup that made everyday tasks difficult.
With a fixed income and limited options for home repairs, Wade worried about his safety. That’s when a friend introduced him to Groundswell’s Save On Utilities Long-Term (SOUL) program, which delivers home safety and energy efficiency upgrades to reduce utility costs and strengthen community resilience against extreme weather.
From the moment Wade connected with Groundswell, he knew he had chosen the right team.
"They listened. They understood. And they made it happen," Wade shared.
Through partnerships with local contractors, Groundswell’s SOUL program installed strategic home upgrades at no cost to Wade. His unsafe flooring was replaced, minimizing the risk of injury. Most importantly, his outdated bathroom—once a daily struggle—was transformed with a fully accessible roll-in shower designed for his mobility needs.
"It’s a relief knowing I don’t have to struggle just to do something as simple as taking a shower," Wade explained. "Before, I had to strain my upper body just to get in and out. Now, I can roll right in—it’s perfect."
For Wade, these upgrades aren’t just renovations; they are about restoring his independence, dignity, and peace of mind. Through energy-smart, safety-focused home improvements, Groundswell is making sure that community members like Wade can age in place comfortably, without the stress of inaccessible living spaces or high energy bills.
Groundswell’s SOUL program is part of a broader commitment to lowering utility costs, increasing home resilience, and ensuring that everyone—regardless of income or ability—has a safe place to call home.
Learn more about how Groundswell is helping communities thrive at Groundswell.org/save-with-soul/projects.