October 30, 2026
From accessibility improvements to disability-related modifications, the program helps families create living spaces that better meet their needs.
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor
The Mille Lacs Band's Disabled Renovation Program provides assistance for home modifications that meet the needs of Band members and family members living with disabilities.
Everyone deserves a home where they can feel safe, comfortable and independent. For Band members living with disabilities, even everyday activities can become challenging when a home is not designed to meet their needs. The Mille Lacs Band's Disabled Renovation Program helps eligible Band members and their families make necessary modifications to their privately owned homes, providing up to $50,000 in assistance for disability-related renovations without additional Band Assembly approval.
The program is available to Band members with disabilities, as well as Band members who have a spouse or child with a disability. Many applicants are also Elders who may need modifications to continue living safely and independently in their homes.
WHO QUALIFIES?
To qualify for the Disabled Renovation Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Be an enrolled Mille Lacs Band member with a dis-ability, or a Band member who has a spouse or child with a disability.
• Own a private home that serves as the applicant's primary residence.
• Provide proof of disability, such as a Social Security disability determination or a medical professional's statement confirming a long-term disability.
• Request renovations that directly address the needs of the person with a disability.
• Live within the program's designated service area.
• Sign a five-year retention agreement.
The program serves eligible homeowners throughout Minnesota, Burnett County, Wisconsin, and designated portions of Polk, Barron, Washburn, Sawyer and Douglas counties in Wisconsin.
HOW DOES THE PROGRAM WORK?
Unlike general home renovation assistance, the Disabled Renovation Program is specifically intended for improvements necessary to accommodate a person's disability.
Funding is limited to $50,000 without prior approval from Band Assembly. Renovations exceeding that amount require additional authorization.
All renovation projects are contracted and managed by Mille Lacs Band Project Management.
There is a waiting list for the program, and all non-emergency renovation work is subject to that waiting list.
Band members who believe they or a family member may qualify are encouraged to contact the Community Development Department to learn more about the application process, required documentation and available assistance.
For more information contact the Mille Lacs Band Community Development Department. To review the policy and application, please visit the Band website Community Development page and scroll down to the bottom of the page for policies. https://tinyurl.com/4emwdsns or scan the QR code.
