SAN ANTONIO \u2013 What sounded like the buzzing of an electric saw, echoing throughout a West Side neighborhood on a recent morning, was to one woman, the sound of freedom.<\/p>\n
A contractor, working on behalf of an organization called the House of Neighborly Service, was constructing a wooden ramp that would act as a bridge to the world for the woman.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe\u2019s in a wheelchair, so we wanted to be able to provide a ramp so she has access in and out,\u201d said Sandra Morales, the organization\u2019s executive director.<\/p>\n
Morales said HNS began the initiative earlier this year to help improve the quality of life for seniors in the community.<\/p>\n
A contractor works on behalf of the House of Neighborly Services, building a wheelchair ramp for a local senior. (Copyright 2024 by KSAT – All rights reserved.)<\/p>\n
Among the other projects completed recently was a remodel of one couple\u2019s bathroom, making it easier for the woman to get in and out of her shower.<\/p>\n
Burt Ramos also had a wheelchair ramp installed on his home, courtesy of the organization.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt came out real nice. Pretty good. It comes in handy,\u201d Ramos said. \u201cI can go all the way around and through here.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ramos said until just a few weeks ago, he had been restricted to his back porch.<\/p>\n
He has been using a wheelchair to get around ever since he underwent a leg amputation. It made it impossible for him to go down the steps leading to his backyard.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo be able to create and give them a space that is accessible to them is really important,\u201d Morales said, speaking of all the recent projects.<\/p>\n
The organization\u2019s work is not limited to seniors.<\/p>\n
HNS also has in-house services at its headquarters on North Calaveras Street that benefit families. Among the services offered are curbside meals, meal deliveries and a child development center.<\/p>\n