Microtel and Hawthorn to Feature 'Short Stature Accessibility Kits'
MARCH 30, 2007. To better serve the over 1.2 million Americans of short stature, Microtel Inns & Suites and Hawthorn Suites are providing accessibility products preferred by Little People at all of the brands'
nearly 400 hotels currently open around the U.S., which will also become 'Little People Friendly Locations.' Microtel Inns & Suites - the all-newly constructed chain of economy/budget hotels - and Hawthorn Suites - the all-suites, extended stay hotel brand - are the only hotel chains to offer the 'Short Stature Accessibility Kit' tools and training system wide.
"We are proud to announce an initiative that has not only brought a newcomer to our family, but further supports our culture of ensuring that we serve the needs of all travelers," said Roy E. Flora, Chief Operating Officer of US Franchise Systems, Inc. (USFS), parent company of the franchisor of the Microtel and Hawthorn Suites hotel brands. "America's Little People are a special but often neglected group of travelers. It's clear that with a few simple tools, training, and an understanding of their needs, we can provide them with quality, accessible hotel accommodations."
The Short Stature Accessibility Kit, designed by Direct Access Solutions of Hillsboro, Oregon, includes a custom stepstool, ergonomic reach grabber, door security latch adapter, extension or 'push-pull' tool, and specially designed closet rod adapter.
"ADA-accessible rooms alone are not the answer for people of short stature," added Matt Roloff, Chairman of Direct Access Solutions and former President of Little People of America. "We applaud Microtel and Hawthorn Suites for treating us with the respect we all deserve, and for being proactive to provide accessibility in all their hotels for America's Little People."
Roloff is also the host of The Learning Channel's TV hit, Little People, Big World.
Both Microtel and Hawthorn Suites have a longstanding commitment to provide quality accommodations and service to travelers with disabilities and are sponsors of The Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH).
Microtel also recently received the Eagle Award from Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) for excellence in providing accessible lodging and for making a significant contribution to the advancement of people with disabilities.
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