BLUFFTON, Sc. (WTOC) - Older adults in Bluffton will soon have greater access to their homes thanks to a new grant awarded to Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry.

The nonprofit announced it has been selected to receive a 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant, which will fund the installation of wheelchair-accessible ramps for qualifying Bluffton residents age 50 and older. The organization was one of 750 recipients chosen from more than 5,100 applications submitted across the United States, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The quick-action grant is designed to help older adults safely remain in their homes by improving accessibility. Eligible residents can apply for a ramp by contacting Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry’s Bluffton administrative office.

“We are incredibly proud that AARP selected us for this investment to help make our community more livable for residents of all ages,” Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry CEO Brenda Dooley said in a statement.

The AARP Community Challenge program supports projects that make communities more walkable, accessible and connected. In its 10th year, the program awarded a record $8.3 million to 750 organizations nationwide.

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry has partnered with families in Beaufort and Jasper counties since 1990 and has helped 195 families achieve affordable homeownership and critical home repairs.

Need a Ramp?

Qualifying Bluffton residents age 50 and older can apply by contacting Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry’s Bluffton office at 843-681-5864.