COC Living gets $90,000 grant for Livonia home upgrades

COC Living has secured a $90,000 grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation to renovate Milburn House in Livonia, adding accessibility and safety upgrades for residents with developmental disabilities. The project supports the nonprofit’s long-running effort to help people live more independently in community-based homes.

Why it matters: - The grant will help COC Living update a licensed adult foster care home so residents can age in place with more safety and comfort. - The renovations are aimed at people with developmental disabilities who rely on accessible housing and daily support. - The project reflects a broader need for homes that can adapt as residents’ mobility and care needs change.

What happened: - COC Living received a $90,000 grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation. - The funding will support renovations at Milburn House, located at 19415 Milburn St. in Livonia, Michigan. - The nonprofit said the project is designed around the needs of multiple residents who live in the home. - The project’s total estimated cost is $89,864.72.

The details: - Planned work includes a new accessible main bathroom with a roll-in shower, fold-down shower seat and accessible fixtures. - COC Living also plans renovations to a second bathroom. - The project includes updates to the laundry area, office space and garage access. - Milburn House was built in 1957. - COC Living said the improvements are intended to support residents’ long-term needs and personal safety. - The organization said the grant will cover the planned renovations and accessibility improvements. - COC Living is a Livonia-based nonprofit that has served people with developmental disabilities for more than 60 years. - Founded in 1965, COC Living provides housing services to about 75 people ages 18 to 75. - The organization owns or manages 15 locations across Livonia, Garden City, Plymouth and Redford. - COC Living’s services include help with daily living, transportation, medical appointments, medication management and community integration. - Residents also participate in day and vocational programs, and some receive job coaching and transportation to work. - The nonprofit is inviting people to volunteer at COC Living’s volunteer page. - More information is available at COC Living’s website. - More information about the foundation is available at the Margaret Dunning Foundation.

Between the lines: - The investment shows how philanthropy can help small nonprofits upgrade older homes without displacing residents. - The focus on accessibility suggests COC Living is preparing for residents who need more support as they get older. - The grant also reinforces the role of community-based housing in keeping people close to familiar routines, services and relationships.

What's next: - COC Living said the renovations are intended to help residents remain in the home for years to come. - The nonprofit will move ahead with the accessibility and safety upgrades at Milburn House. - COC Living will continue operating its housing and support services across its network of homes.