The Canadian Wheelchair Foundation/Fondation Chaise Roulante Canada (CWF) is committed to perpetuating sustainable development. While wheelchairs can be categorized as humanitarian aid, they have proven to be a proficient tool of sustainable development in all the communities where we have ongoing programs.
CWF maintains a strong capacity building mandate. The mobility wheelchairs provide makes them an important tool of empowerment. In gaining mobility, persons with disabilities are given an opportunity to integrate themselves into society; by attending school, going to work, and becoming a part of the community. In addressing the needs of the disabled community, and thereby acknowledging their value as citizens, CWF promotes accessibility and integration. The importance of creating a strong civil society is an important step in creating lasting development.
By giving people a means to help themselves through use of a wheelchair, CWF is helping to transform "development aid" into development opportunity.