This story highlights how collaboration between RISE, Family First Initiative, and First Baptist Church helped a local family gain access to essential mobility equipment that was not covered by insurance. Through a $3,000 scholarship from RISE and additional community support, a wheelchair lift was provided, significantly improving independence and quality of life.
“Melissa responded to our request for help in obtaining essential medical equipment that our insurance would not cover. This equipment was critical in allowing us to become more independent, giving us the ability to leave our home more easily and access community stores, events, and medical appointments.
Melissa was able to help us find a resource that met our needs and made it possible for my husband to leave the home with his wheelchair without requiring assistance from others to load and unload it from the vehicle. She went above and beyond in her efforts and was able to secure a solution within just two weeks.
We are deeply grateful for her dedication, compassion, and the time she invested in helping us reach this goal. We truly appreciate that our small community has an initiative like this available to help bridge the gap for families in need of assistance.
Melissa also helped us navigate the available resources and funding options, guiding us through the process with care and understanding. She shared additional resources available through the initiative and provided information about other organizations in the community that may be able to assist with different needs in the future. She is truly a wealth of knowledge and a pleasure to work with.”

