Wheelchair vans are unlike other vehicle purchases. They provide freedom, additional comfort and can be critical in emergencies. When you or a loved one becomes disabled, day-to-day life is never quite the same. Purchasing a wheelchair van can greatly enhance independence and foster a stronger sense of self.
Purchasing a wheelchair van is a huge investment. The equipment manufacturers use to provide access to the mobility impaired is quite costly. Unlike a typical full-sized van or minivan, mobility equipped vehicles must be engineered and adapted individually, causing production costs to increase.
Don’t become overwhelmed with the price tag of these vehicles! Take a look at this comprehensive, state-by-state guide for disability grants and other resources available. If you or your loved one requires a mobility van, there is help out there! It just requires some additional research and follow-up.
Minnesota:
The Great Lakes ADA Center:
(312) 413-1470
The Great Lakes ADA Center aims to advocate and help those with disabilities achieve access to the resources they require to live more meaningful lives. Information on grants and affordable wheelchair van finance options may be found here.
Minnesota System of Technology to Achieve Results (STAR) Program
This organization provides assistance in placing adaptive equipment in the hands of those who require it for day to day living. Speak to a representative at the STAR program about grants towards mobility vehicles as well as access to other technology to aid in physical impairment.
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)
(651) 296-2562
The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) helps veterans and the families of veterans gain access to services such as medical, dental, vocational and mental health. If you or your loved one served in the military and was injured during duty, eligibility for a grant towards a mobility vehicle may be possible.
EquipALife
(763) 479-8239
EquipALife is a nonprofit that specializes in helping provide financial assistance towards adaptive equipment for those requiring it. Contact this organization about possible grants for mobility vehicles, wheelchairs and more.
Minnesota Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
The Minnesota Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) helps support the states elderly population. Scooters, lifts and wheelchair access may be acquired through this organization.
Wisconsin:
Governor’s Committee for People with Disabilities (GCPD)
(608) 261-7816
The Governor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Program is a great resource for those requiring adaptive equipment such as a mobility vehicle, scooter or wheelchair.
Wisconsin’s Assistive Technology Program (WisTech)
https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disabilities/wistech/index.htm
(608) 266-7974
Helping those with disabilities live better and more fulfilling lives is the goal of WisTech. This group can help you find financial aid towards your mobility vehicle as well as other forms of assistance.
Wisconsin Department f Veterans Affairs (WDVA)
https://dva.state.wi.us/Pages/Home.aspx
(800) 947- 8387
The Department of Veterans Affairs helps provide assistance and support to those who have served in the military. Medical, dental, mental health and vocational aid is can be found through the DVA. Grants towards mobility vehicles can be available to those who qualify.
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) State of Wisconsin
https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr/
(800) 442-3477
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) aims to help those with significant disabilities find employment. Grants towards wheelchair vans can be available to certain candidates
Wisconsin Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)
https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm
Contact your local ADRC center if you or a loved one is aging or has a disability and needs help accessing resources.
Illinois:
Great Lakes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Center
(312) 413-1470
The Great Lakes ADA Center aims to advocate and help those with disabilities achieve access to the resources they require to live more meaningful lives. Information on grants and affordable wheelchair van finance options may be found here.
Illinois Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
(217) 787-9234
These (AAA) agencies work to serve elderly citizens as well as those with disabilities gain access to resources and adaptive equipment.
Family Support Network
https://www.familysupportnetwork.org/
(708) 331-7370
The Illinois Family Support Network works to support families with elderly and disabled members live better lives. Contact the FSN for information on access to financial aid towards adaptive equipment such as a mobility vehicle.
Illinois Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA)
https://www.illinois.gov/veterans/Pages/default.aspx
(312) 814-2460
(217) 782-6641
The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has a primary mission to serve the states military veterans and their families. Securing grants towards a mobility vehicle as well as other adaptive equipment may be possible. Medical, dental, mental health and vocational services may be found through this organization.
Indiana:
Indiana Council on Independent Living (ICOIL)
The Indiana Council on Independent Living aims to support those living with disabilities gain more personal autonomy and mobility. Inquire about grants and financial assistance towards a mobility vehicle.
Indiana Assistive Technology (INDATA)
(317) 466-2013
The Indiana Assistive Technology Act Organization helps provide the disabled community access to equipment and other adaptive resources. Contact this group to help locate an affordable handicap van.
Indiana Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)
(317) 232-3910
The Department of Veterans Affairs helps Indiana-based military veterans gain access to resources such as medical, dental, mental health and vocational. Grants and greater financial assistance towards a mobility van may be possible if you or your loved one was injured while in service.
Great Lakes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Center
(312) 413-1470
The Great Lakes ADA Center aims to advocate and help those with disabilities achieve access to the resources they require to live more meaningful lives. Information on grants and affordable wheelchair van finance options may be found here.
Michigan:
Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA)
https://www.michigan.gov/dmva/
(517) 335-6523
The Michigan VA offers resources such as medical, dental, vocational, mental health and financial assistance to those who have served in the military. If you or your loved one was injured during the service, a wheelchair van grant may be available.
Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS)
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-73971—,00.html
(517) 373-3390
The MRS offers support to those who are seeking employment. If you are unable to work due to transportation difficulties, this organization may be able to help you finance a wheelchair van.
Michigan Aging and Disabilities Resource Centers (ADRCs)
https://www.michigan.gov/adrc/
The Aging and Disabilities Resource Centers are nationwide and look to provide support for the elderly and disabled.
Great Lakes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Center
(312) 413-1470
The Great Lakes ADA Center aims to advocate and help those with disabilities achieve access to the resources they require to live more meaningful lives. Information on grants and affordable wheelchair van finance options may be found here.
Ohio:
Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC)
(614) 438-1200
The Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC) works to help those living with disabilities find greater independence and mobility. Direct financial assistance may not be found here, however the RSC has many resources to aid you in the process.
Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC)
(614) 466-5205
The Developmental Disabilities Council is an organization that provides services to those with developmental handicaps. Grant money towards a wheelchair van may be found here.
The Disability Foundation
https://www/disability-foundation.org/
(937) 225-9939
The Disability Foundation is an affiliate of the Dayton Foundation and aims to provide support to those living with mobility issues that impair day-to-day activities. Grants may be found here.
Great Lakes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Center
(312) 413-1470
The Great Lakes ADA Center aims to advocate and help those with disabilities achieve access to the resources they require to live more meaningful lives. Information on grants and affordable wheelchair van finance options may be found here.
Ohio Department of Veterans Services (DVS)
(614) 644-0898
The Ohio Department of Veterans Services provides resources and support to veterans and their families. Educational, vocational, medical, dental and mental health services may be found here. If you require a mobility van and were injured during your military service, you may find grants here.
These are just a few of the places to start looking for wheelchair financing assistance. There are many other private foundations and grants.
If you live in the Mountain Region or West Coast, please read the previous blog on Wheelchair Van Finance West Coast and Central U.S.
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