Frequently Asked Questions |
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Q: How many people need wheelchairs but cannot afford one?
A: 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. The number in Angola is 20% of population of 12 million people. Other "landmine" countries such as Afghanistan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bosnia, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone and Mozambique have extremely high physical disability rates. Q: Where are the wheelchairs manufactured? A: We purchase wheelchairs from several manufacturers in China that build a quality product designed to be easily maintainable in developing countries. Q: How much does a wheelchair cost? A: We can purchase and deliver a wheelchair to our distribution partners worldwide for an average of $150. This wheelchair would normally cost $500 in the U.S., but the large quantities that we purchase allow us to deliver each one for roughly $150, by a 280-wheelchair sea container. This same type of wheelchair sells for up to $1,700 US in some developing countries. Q: How much do I have to donate to deliver a wheelchair to a physically disabled person? A: $150 helps purchase, ship and deliver a new wheelchair to a person in need and supports the mission of Wheelchair Foundation.. To sponsor a container of 100 to 280 wheelchairs, please see our Sponsorship Program page Q: How do you decide who gets a wheelchair? A: 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 that can now go to school, adults that can now go to work and seniors that can once again become an active part of family life and society. Q: Can I designate which country I want my donation to go? A: We collect donations and then send containers of 100 to 280 wheelchairs each to our distribution partners in countries that have been identified as in great need. For sponsoring a container, you can pick a developing country from our list of approved destinations where we enjoy established and successful distribution relationships. There are currently 152 countries on the list. Q: How will my donation be acknowledged? A: For every $150 tax-deductible donation, you will receive a personalized certificate of appreciation with a color photograph of a wheelchair recipient. A person who had their quality of life greatly improved by the gift of a wheelchair. Q: Are all of the wheelchairs going to countries other than the United States? A: No. The Salvation Army, Goodwill Industries, Catholic Charities, and other relief organizations are working with us here in the U.S. to distribute wheelchairs to people that need one but cannot afford one. Some groups and organizations do sponsor 280 wheelchair containers to the US at a cost of $42,000 per container. Q: Are these wheelchairs designed for rough, third world conditions? A: 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. Q: What is the goal of the Wheelchair Foundation? A: Our goal is to distribute 1 million wheelchairs in the next 5 years, and to further the awareness that a wheelchair is no longer an unaffordable item for delivery in developing countries throughout the world. Q: How can I help? A: You can help in the following ways:
Q: How can I attend a Wheelchair Foundation event or distribution? A: Please visit the "Events" page of our web site by clicking here. |
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Are you searching for a unique gift idea? How about giving someone mobility in the name of someone you care for? When you make a donation online, you will be able to print a gift certificate that you can give as a gift. It is a great last-minute gift idea because you can print it immediately. Then 4-6 weeks later, your loved one will receive the presentation certificate. To donate online and receive your gift certificate, please click here
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Ken Behring's personal journey that led to the creation of the Wheelchair Foundation, and the stories of people we have touched. |
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