June 14, 2007 (WLS) -- There are many Americans who cannot independently get in and out of their own homes because they are not accessible.

There is help available for those who need these modifications and cannot afford it.

Four years ago, United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Chicago established a program called Ramp Up. Since the program started, more than 100 people with physical disabilities have the freedom to mobilize in their own homes.

Twenty-one years ago, Annie Townsend and her husband bought a house. At the time, Annie was able to climb stairs. But, four years ago, everything changed. "I've had open heart surgery, I had amputee, I have diabetes," Annie said.

Annie could no longer go out of her home.

"I could never go upstairs," she said. "I'd stay downstairs in my dining room and living room."

The couple could not afford the $10,000-modification to their home. Luckily, they were put in touch with the Ramp Up foundation.

"It can be a simple ramp or a lift and not take much time, or it can be home modifications that are door widening, kitchen-bathroom modifications," said Paul Dulles, president and CEO of the foundation.

Dulles says low income families of children and adults with physical disabilities in Cook County who own their homes and cannot afford modification can apply.

"We send a staff member out to screen the applicant to determine whether or not they need the qualifications under the income guidelines, and then we take a look at the scope of the work," said Dulles. "Then, we try to figure out whether we have the funds to be able to do the work."

Ramp Up coordinator Kenneth Burr says project cost varies.

"Our projects range in cost probably from about $5,000 up to as much as $225,000 of actual construction cost, depending on what the need is for the individual," Burr said.

In January, Ramp Up installed a two stair ride for Annie.

"It enables someone who can transfer into that chair simply to sit on it, and by pushing a button, they can go up all the way up the stairs or comeback down, or they can call it up or down like you would an elevator," said Burr.

In addition to being able to get to her own bedroom, Annie was able to go out and take a breath of fresh air.

"I rode down the stairway, and I was able to go out and walk to the car," Annie said.