Mobility equipment is expensive. Wheelchairs, power chairs, and power scooters can cost thousands of dollars. Fortunately, non-profit organizations exist today to provide equipment to those in need.
How they work
Charities of this nature provide mobility equipment to qualifying individuals in need. The equipment they provide is obtained in a variety of ways, including the procurement of new equipment or recycling and repurposing.
Many of these organizations are based locally. If you aren't in their area, they may not be able to serve you. This isn't always the case, but it's something to consider. Luckily, they are often happy to provide information about other organizations in your area.
The American Outreach Foundation
The American Outreach Foundation (AOF) began in 2007. This non-profit accepts used power chairs that they then refurbish. Donated chairs are then provided to veterans or lower-income families.
The AOF has a qualification and application process for prospective participants. It defines an eligible individual as someone who has been medically prescribed a mobility device but can't afford one.
Should an individual qualify, the AOF will deliver it directly to them. If the equipment is within an individual's means and/or against their doctor's recommendation, they may not qualify.
It should be noted that, at this time, The American Outreach Foundation is only serving clients in the Coachella Valley of California.
The Kids Equipment Network
The Kids Equipment Network (TKEN) is a non-profit dedicated to providing children with mobility technology. Based in the Chicago area, TKEN has been in service since 2005, and KEN also offers accessibility technology such as bath and toilet systems.
The organization provides equipment through its monthly clinics. Families will first fill out an application describing the equipment they need. Once TKEN has the equipment in stock, they will invite the family to one of their clinics for a fitting.
Fittings can last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. After the fitting, the equipment is ready to be brought home.
It should be noted that TKEN is currently servicing Chicago and the surrounding area. They are, however, happy to direct people to similar organizations in their respective locales.
Whirlwind Wheelchair International
Whirlwind Wheelchair International (WWI) is a non-profit founded in Berkeley, California. Its mission is to provide mobility equipment on an international scale.
WWI takes pride in the quality of its wheelchairs. Their rough rider chairs are durable and easy to operate. These devices are most commonly sent to areas with rougher terrain.
The chairs are constructed in shops and factories in Vietnam, China, Mexico, South Africa, and The Republic of Georgia. To date, WWI has sent chairs to over 60 countries.
The Wheelchair Foundation
The Wheelchair Foundation (TWF) was established in the year 2000. Their mission is to provide wheelchairs to people in need all over the world.
The organization relies on donations to purchase and distribute wheelchairs. According to its website, it can achieve its goals with the help of $150 donations.
With these donations, TWF can purchase their chairs from manufacturers in China, and they then partner with relief organizations to distribute their chairs globally.
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