Recreational wheelchairs play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for people with mobility challenges. However, obtaining the right wheelchair can be financially challenging. Fortunately, numerous funding options and resources exist to help people acquire these specialized chairs. Several non-profit organizations focus on improving accessibility and quality of life for people with disabilities. They often offer grants, financial assistance, or fundraising support for acquiring recreational wheelchairs. Examples include:
Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF)
The Challenged Athletes Foundation provides grants for adaptive sports equipment, including sports wheelchairs, for people with physical challenges participating in sports and recreational activities. CAF believes that participation in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence, and enhances quality of life.
High Fives Foundation
High Fives Foundation supports athletes who have suffered life-altering injuries with adaptive sports equipment grants to aid in recovery and sports participation. Their mission is to create a universal shift in adventure sports that expands what is possible for those who have faced life-changing injuries.
Kelly Brush Foundation
The Kelly Brush Foundation focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries by providing adaptive sports equipment grants, including adaptive cycles. The foundation's mission is to inspire and empower people with spinal cord injuries to lead active and engaged lives.
The Independence Fund
The Independence Fund focuses on supporting veterans and their caregivers by offering adaptive sports equipment, including all-terrain mobility devices, to regain the ability to do the things they love. The Independence Fund strives to bridge the gap of unmet needs for veterans and their caregivers.
Move United
Move United offers adaptive sports programs nationwide, providing opportunities for everyone (regardless of ability) to participate in sports and recreation in their communities. Move United is a national multi-sport, multi-disability organization serving more than 70,000 youths and adults annually. Move United offers programs through its nationwide network of more than 150 community-based chapters operating in 42 states.
Community and Civic Organizations
Service clubs like Lions Clubs International, Rotary International, or Kiwanis International sometimes provide financial aid or support for mobility equipment to people in need within their communities.
Visit these organizations' websites for specific details on their programs, eligibility criteria, and application processes. They may offer grants, financial aid, or other assistance to people seeking recreational opportunities or adaptive sports equipment. Do you know of an organization that is not on the list? Please let us know in the comments section below.
Acquiring a recreational wheelchair can significantly enhance independence, mobility, and overall well-being for people with disabilities. While the cost might seem daunting, exploring various funding options can make these specialized wheelchairs more accessible.
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