The Portage la Prairie Legion has completed significant upgrades to its handicap access ramps thanks to a generous grant from the Community Foundation of Portage and District. Bob Oldford, past president of the Legion and current service officer, spoke about the improvements, highlighting their importance for the local community.
"Our ramp was starting to show its age. The carpeting on the ramp inside the building had been there for over 25 years, and it was becoming a safety hazard. There were also soft spots on the floor from the entrance to the upstairs hall, which required repair."
The Legion's upgraded ramp now provides better accessibility for various community members, including residents from nearby facilities like Douglas Campbell Lodge and Lions Prairie Manor. Oldford emphasized that the ramp isn't just for visitors from these locations but also for members who struggle with stairs or use mobility aids such as walkers, wheelchairs, or scooters.
Ken Brennan, Chair of the Granting Committee with the Community Foundation shared why they felt this was a good fit for the money.
"We saw this grant as an opportunity to improve accessibility and safety for the Portage Legion, ensuring it remains a welcoming space for all community members for years to come."
The grant not only covered the ramp's renovation but also helped fund other crucial repairs inside the building. Oldford said,
"When we removed the old carpet, we discovered spots that needed extra bracing and new plywood to make the ramp solid and safe for everyone."
The Legion's upgrades are part of a broader effort to enhance accessibility, ensuring both upstairs and downstairs areas of the building are accessible to all. Brennan finished off by saying,
"It's rewarding to see the project completed and already in use, knowing it will make the Legion safer, more modern, and better equipped for future events."
