Laura Young
ECB Publishing, Inc.
FLCares, Inc. worked with American Legion Post #49 on Saturday, March 14, to install a new stairway at the American Legion Hall on South Water Street. Now the stairs leading into their green building have two lanes, an added central rail, shorter (half-step) risers and deeper tread areas.
“Navigating the entrance is so much easier now,” commented Post #49 Commander Ed Gifford, “and people can grip both rails if they are a little unsteady on their feet.”
Led by Eric Evans, FLCares is a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to improving accessibility though constructing ramps, stairs, landings and the like that meet or exceed ADA requirements. FLCares works across Jefferson, Gadsden, Wakulla and Leon counties on a variety of projects, most of which can be completed in just one day (weather permitting) at no cost to the recipient.
“Please refer anyone who would benefit from better, safer, more functional home accessibility,” their brochure says.
Since its founding in 2018, FLCares has undertaken thousands of accessibility projects in the four-county service area. In 2025, the organization completed a record-breaking 430 projects, and 30 of those were in Jefferson County. They often partner with local service clubs that provide volunteer labor or funds for materials. The FLCares project at Post #49 was its sixth in Jefferson County and 105th so far for 2026.
A dedicated group of local volunteers does a FLCares project in Jefferson County on the second Saturday of every month. Just call 850-347-5156 or email FL.Cares.Info@gmail.com to suggest a project, offer donations or volunteer to help.
IN THE FEATURED PHOTO: People attending meetings and events at the American Legion Hall can now enter and exit the facility more easily and safely, with two lanes separated by additional handrails. Photo Courtesy