Westonwood Ranch to Expand in 2026 to Meet Growing Demand for Supportive Housing

Transformational $1 Million Donation  from the Dugas Family Foundation Propels Expansion Forward

FREEPORT, Fla. (January 13, 2026) — Westonwood Ranch proudly announces a transformative supportive housing initiative scheduled to break ground Spring of 2026 on its 38-acre campus. Designed to address the critical shortage of affordable, inclusive housing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), this expansion represents a major advancement in long-term, dignity-centered living options for this underserved population.

Founded in 2018, Westonwood Ranch was established with a clear mission: to create meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive within a supportive community. Since its inception, the organization has steadily grown its programming and impact, developing life skills training, vocational opportunities, and community-based supports that emphasize independence, purpose, and dignity. Over the past several years, Westonwood Ranch has built a strong foundation of trust with families, partners, and public agencies by responding directly to the long-term needs of individuals with IDD—needs that often extend far beyond traditional services.

The expansion builds upon this proven foundation by establishing a thoughtfully designed supportive housing community offering a range of mixed living options to meet diverse needs and levels of independence. These options will include dorm-style residences, eight plex homes,  four plex homes, and a tiny home village  living option. Together, these residences will form an inclusive neighborhood that promotes independence, safety, and meaningful community connection.

Central to the expansion is the construction of additional program building dedicated to life skills development, education, and community programming. This facility will serve as a hub where residents can build essential daily living skills, engage in vocational and social development, and receive supports that foster long-term independence and quality of life.

The project is supported in part by funding by the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities, underscoring the state’s commitment to innovative, community-based solutions for individuals with IDD.

The capital campaign for this project  was launched last year with a monumental lead gift: a $1 million pledge from the Dugas Family Foundation. This generous commitment represents a significant investment in the future of inclusive housing and set a strong foundation for the  campaign’s success.

The Dugas Family Foundation’s pledge was a defining moment for this project,” said Lindy Wood of Westonwood Ranch. “Their early leadership validated years of groundwork laid since 2018 and gave this vision the momentum needed to become reality. This gift sends a powerful message that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve high-quality housing, opportunities for growth, and a community where they truly belong.”

As lead donor to the $8 million expansion, the Dugas Family Foundation’s $1 million pledge has also served as a catalyst for additional philanthropic investment—helping to accelerate development timelines and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the Westonwood Ranch model.

“Our Board’s confidence in Westonwood Ranch and in Lindy Wood’s visionary leadership is unwavering,” said the Dugas Family Foundation Board of Directors. “This expansion reflects the strength of their mission and our shared commitment to ensuring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live with dignity, purpose, and a true sense of belonging.”

As Westonwood Ranch looks toward 2026, the call to answer the shortage of affordable supportive housing options for those with IDD stands as the next chapter in a mission-driven journey that began in 2018—one focused on expanding opportunity, fostering independence, and building inclusive communities where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can thrive.

For more information about the Westonwood Ranch Expansion Project or to learn how to support the capital campaign, please visit westonwood.org/supportivelivingcommunityexpansion or email westonwoodranch@gmail.coming these benefits highlights why capturing and disseminating press releases should be a priority

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