Most frequent questions and answers

It is estimated that at least 100 million children, teens and adults worldwide need a wheelchair but cannot afford one. Some international organizations believe that the number could be as high as 6% of the population of developing countries. For example, this number is estimated to be 20% of the population of Angola, or 12 million people . Other “landmine” countries such as Afghanistan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bosnia, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone and Mozambique also have extremely high physical disability rates.

We purchase from a manufacturer in China that builds quality, medical-grade, ISO certified wheelchairs designed to be easily maintained in developing countries.

For every donation of $195 we can purchase and deliver a wheelchair to our international and national distribution partners. Wheelchairs of similar quality would normally sell for $600 in Canada. Often the same type of wheelchair sells for up to $1,800 in developing countries.

We distribute wheelchairs worldwide through a network of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO’s) that have ongoing humanitarian relief missions in the countries of wheelchair destination. These distribution partners handle all aspects of the importation and distribution of the wheelchairs to children who can now go to school, adults who are able to seek employment and seniors that can once again become an active part of family life and society.

We send wheelchair containers to our distribution partners in countries that have been identified with the greatest needs. Where an individual or a group of donors provide sufficient funds to sponsor a full container of wheelchairs, they are able to select a destination from our list of approved countries where we enjoy established and successful distribution relationships. There are currently 109 countries on the list. Please contact us for more information about the approved destination countries.

For every $195 tax-deductible donation, you will receive a personalized certificate of appreciation with a colour photograph of a wheelchair recipient. A person who had their quality of life greatly improved by the gift of a wheelchair.

Yes. The wheelchairs that we distribute are specifically designed for the rough conditions of developing countries. Extra heavy wheels, tires, and front casters, sealed bearings and nylon seating make these wheelchairs the best possible for most conditions.

You can help in the following ways:

• Your tax-deductible donation can make the difference between people wanting to live or die.
• Have a fund-raiser! A dinner or cocktail party in your home can serve as a venue to tell people about helping others. Local businesses, organizations and schools can all help. We will supply everything you need to help us change the world.
• Spread the word to everyone you know!
• Corporate Sponsorship. Help us find corporations that have interests in countries that need our help. We can target their sponsorship to specific countries and needs, and will put a sticker on the wheelchair identifying the sponsor of an entire 280-wheelchair container. They will be a hero, and so many people will be given a new lease on life.