Many take mobility for granted, but electric wheelchairs can make all the difference for people who have trouble getting around. Find out why wheelchair access is so important and how you can help by donating your used power chair here.
What Should I Do With My Used Wheelchair?
For those in need, an electric wheelchair can be life-changing, but with prices ranging from $1,500 to $30,000, they’re out of reach for many. If you or a loved one no longer needs a used electric wheelchair, there are several ways to give it a new purpose.
One of the most meaningful options is to donate it to someone in need. By doing this, you can pay it forward and help your wheelchair continue to make a difference in someone else’s life.
Where to Donate Used Electric Wheelchairs
National and International Non-Profit Organizations
Several well-established non-profits collect and distribute donated electric wheelchairs to people in need, both locally and globally, including, but not limited to:
- The Wheelchair Foundation: This global organization provides wheelchairs to people in developing countries. Their donation process is simple, and you can get a tax deduction.
- Goodwill Industries: Goodwill accepts electric wheelchair donations throughout the US. According to its website, it refurbishes and distributes all types of wheelchairs, both manual and motorized.
- The American Red Cross: Some local chapters of the American Red Cross accept power wheelchairs and hand them out to people in emergency situations.
- Direct Relief: Known for its global humanitarian aid, Direct Relief accepts electric wheelchairs and ensures they reach those affected by natural disasters or in underserved communities.
- Project CURE: The largest distributor of donated medical equipment in the world, Project Cure accepts durable medical equipment (DME) at their collection locations in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Nashville, Phoenix, and Philadelphia.
Local Charities and Community Centers
Tons of local organizations are also happy to accept electric wheelchair donations, including:
- Local Hospitals and Rehab Centers: Many hospitals and rehab centers accept DME donations, including power wheelchairs, to lend to patients in need.
- Senior Centers: Reach out to senior living communities and centers, as they often have residents who could benefit from donated mobility aids.
- Churches and Community Organizations: Some religious and community groups run programs to assist individuals with disabilities and might accept donations.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Groups like Easterseals have local chapters that may take wheelchair donations. According to Easterseals’ website, their Superior California location is always seeking wheelchair donations.
- Freedom Mobility Center: Freedom Mobility is a Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) solutions provider in California that accepts gently used electric wheelchair donations. Donations are often loaned to people while they wait for their custom power wheelchairs to arrive.
If possible, try to include the owner’s manual with your wheelchair donation. If you no longer have the paper manual, you may be able to find a digital copy online.
Need a Power Wheelchair in California? Contact Us Today!
Do you know someone who needs a power wheelchair in California? Freedom Mobility is here to help! We offer several types of mobility solutions, including electric wheelchairs, scooters, and other assistive devices.
Contact us today or call 800-980-5696 to learn more about our products, services, and flexible financing options.
October 2, 2024 by Freedom Mobility
Many take mobility for granted, but electric wheelchairs can make all the difference for people who have trouble getting around. Find out why wheelchair access is so important and how you can help by donating your used power chair here. What Should I Do...