ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Spring and summer bring warmer weather and a full schedule of fairs, festivals and fun outdoor events. For most it’s simply a matter of making plans and getting there. For people with unique personal care needs, it can be a bit more complicated.

That is why the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities applied for and received a grant to bring Momentum Refresh, America’s first fully accessible mobile restroom, to a variety of community events across the Ohio Valley this year.

“This service provides dignity for people with disabilities whose personal care needs have made it difficult for them to attend and enjoy community events,” said Gloria Llewellyn, superintendent of the Belmont, Harrison, and Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities.

Llewellyn noted that ADA accessible restrooms do not always meet the needs of people with disabilities. Because of this, most cannot or do not attend activities.

Based in Thousand Oaks, California, Momentum Refresh was born out of the desire to redefine inclusivity after witnessing the challenges faced by people with mobility issues in accessing basic facilities.

“Momentum Refresh removes a major barrier because it means people know their personal care needs can be met while they attend community-sponsored events,” the board noted in a release.

The unit is equipped with a full-size adjustable adult changing table, lift system, and on-site staff to assist users, provide support and maintain cleanliness.

Momentum Refresh makes its local debut Saturday, May 4, at the Raise the Woof Band Bash at the Carnes Center, St. Clairsville. Organized by Belmont County Hoof & Paw, the bash will raise money to benefit abused and neglected animals with a portion of proceeds going to the Bethesda Police Department Shop with a Cop program.

Funds for Momentum Refresh were provided to the Belmont, Harrison, and Noble County Boards through the American Rescue Plan Act and administered by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.

Find out where Momentum Refresh will be in 2024 by logging onto bcbdd.org

The Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities coordinates and funds supports and services for over 700 eligible children and adults with developmental differences across the county. To learn more, log onto www.bcbdd.org.