New initiative is aimed at improving downtown accessibility

BRATTLEBORO — The Inclusion Center has designed “knock for assistance” signs for display in storefronts of local downtowns.

The 2-by-2-inch signs are for stores that have doors that must be either pushed or pulled to open.

“Something as easy as opening a door can be a challenge for someone in a wheelchair, using a walker, or pushing a stroller,” said Julie Tamler, director of The Inclusion Center, in a news release.

Store owners will be asked to display the “knock for assistance” sign on a front window or door. The purpose of the sign is to let someone needing help know that, when they knock, a staff person inside will open the door for them.

Volunteers from The Inclusion Center will distribute “knock for assistance” signs in Hinsdale, Bellows Falls, Brattleboro, and other local towns.

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