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 a manufacturer in China that builds quality, medical-grade wheelchairs designed to be easily maintainable in developing countries.

Q: What donation amount is required to deliver a wheelchair to a person in need?

A: For every donation of $150 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 these types of wheelchairs sell for up to $1,800 in developing countries.

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 280-wheelchair containers to our distribution partners in countries that have been identified as in great need. If you donate enough for a 280, or $42,000, you can pick a developing country from our list of approved destinations where we enjoy established and successful distribution relationships. There are currently 109 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 colour photograph of a wheelchair recipient. A person who had their quality of life greatly improved by the gift of a wheelchair.

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: How can I help?

A: 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.