The Wheelchair Foundation Gives the Gift of Mobility

Countless organizations, in the US and abroad, provide those in need of handicapped accessibility with what can only be considered a necessary gift- the gift of mobility. The Wheelchair Foundation is one such non-profit doing tremendous things for the handicapped community. A division of the Global Health and Education Foundation, The Wheelchair Foundation aims to promote awareness of the needs and abilities of the physically disabled.  To accomplish this ambitious mission, they work toward providing wheelchairs to those who need them all over the world.

With over one hundred million people worldwide that fit this criterion, The Wheelchair Foundation certainly has it’s mission cut out for it.  Additionally, this number is constantly growing due to the frequency of crippling injuries sustained in countries such as Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Sierra Leone, where landmines and other hazards are prevalent and safety precautions and medical care are minimal.

Recognizing that many recipients live their lives in rough conditions, the Wheelchair Foundation does not rely on donated handicapped accessibility options that might not be suited to harsh environments. Instead, the organization purchases wheelchairs that are specifically designed to be durable and last in the limited wheelchair accessibility in third-world countries. Though The Wheelchair Foundation can only accept monetary contributions, amazingly as little as $150 dollars can provide a wheelchair and shipping costs for one person in need.

Since its launch at the turn of the millennium, the Wheelchair Foundation has delivered more than 830,000 wheelchairs to over 150 countries and geographical areas all over the world. Although its initial funds were exhausted in 2008, it has continued to carry out its mission with aid from benefactors all over the United States.

These issues of limited mobility and the struggle to find wheelchair accessibility are not just far away in third-world countries and war-zones. They are close to home as well – many neighbors and wheelchair community members have to overcome challenges each day, which is why we love to spotlight people and organizations near and far that increase awareness and help those with physical disabilities to keep life moving. That is our commitment at Van Products, so drop us a note if you want to learn more!