Earlier this year the first-of-its-kind mobile changing unit was unveiled at a stock and rodeo show in San Antonio, Texas. Designed to accommodate people with disabilities and their caregivers, this 24-foot trailer unit includes an accessible toilet, a height-adjustable changing table, a sink, a shower with a handheld shower head and handlebars, and a lift to transfer someone from their wheelchair to the changing table.
Photo credit: DisabilitySA
Created by DisabilitySA and named ChangingSA, it was funded by a $100,000 grant from the Impact San Antonio organization. It will be available at local festivals, concerts and other outdoor events in the San Antonio area. ChangingSA-trained staff and volunteers will supervise its use, offering assistance if needed while ensuring safety and cleanliness.
More Than Just Accessibility
The founder of ChangingSA, Traci Lewand, has championed this project as a mother of a child with disabilities. Her ten-year-old son Mason has health issues requiring around-the-clock care. This mobile changing unit not only enables people with disabilities to attend community activities, it also elevates their level of dignity in public.
The hope is more of these mobile changing units will be available to more communities across the country. When people with disabilities can engage in community events with the comfort of knowing their needs will be met, they experience better overall health and connectedness with their communities.
Cover photo credit: Kayla Padilla/TPR
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