As a parent or caregiver of a child with special medical needs, transportation can be one of the biggest challenges you face. Whether it’s getting to doctor’s appointments, therapies, or simply being able to enjoy family outings, having a reliable and handicap-accessible vehicle is essential. However, the cost of such a vehicle or the modifications needed can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are grants and programs designed to help families like yours get the funding necessary to purchase or modify a vehicle for accessibility.
Below are some trusted resources and vendors that offer grants and assistance for handicap-accessible vehicles:
1. Brain & Spinal Injury Trust Fund (Georgia)
If you’re a Georgia resident with a child who has experienced a brain or spinal injury, the Brain & Spinal Injury Trust Fund offers grants to help cover costs related to medical care and transportation needs. This can include wheelchair-accessible vehicle modifications.
Learn more and apply: Brain & Spinal Injury Trust Fund
2. Nova Funding
Nova Funding provides grants to help individuals with disabilities purchase or modify a vehicle to make it wheelchair accessible. They aim to ease the burden for families by providing funding for modifications like wheelchair lifts or ramps.
Learn more and apply: Nova Funding
3. Wheelchairs 4 Kids – Wheelchair Lift Grant
Wheelchairs 4 Kids is a nonprofit organization that offers various assistance programs, including grants for wheelchair lifts. Their program is aimed at children with mobility challenges, helping to make vehicles accessible for families.
Learn more and apply: Wheelchairs 4 Kids
4. FOCUS Fragile Kids – Equipment Grant Program
FOCUS offers equipment grants to families in Georgia who have children with significant medical needs. This program helps families acquire necessary adaptive equipment, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Learn more and apply: FOCUS Fragile Kids
5. Brighter Tomorrow Grant
The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation’s Brighter Tomorrow Grant helps individuals living with MS to get the equipment or services they need, which includes vehicle modifications. Although primarily for individuals with MS, this grant can also be a resource if your family is impacted by the condition.
Learn more and apply: Brighter Tomorrow Grant
6. Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation
This foundation offers charitable grants to those affected by paralysis due to spinal cord injuries. Families can apply for assistance with accessibility needs, including vehicle modifications or the purchase of an accessible vehicle.
Learn more and apply: Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation
7. Special Kids Fund – Accessible Van Grant
Special Kids Fund provides assistance to families in need of wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They offer grants specifically to help cover the cost of either modifying an existing vehicle or purchasing a fully accessible van.
Learn more and apply: Special Kids Fund
8. R&R Mobility – Accessible Vehicle Vendor
R&R Mobility is a trusted vendor specializing in wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They offer a range of options, from new to pre-owned vehicles, and provide excellent customer service. R&R Mobility was the vendor I personally used to secure a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for my family, and I highly recommend them.
Learn more: R&R Mobility
9. AMS Vans
AMS Vans is one of the largest manufacturers and sellers of wheelchair-accessible vehicles in the country. They offer financing options and work with various programs to make handicap-accessible vehicles more affordable for families.
Learn more: AMS Vans
Tips for Applying for Grants
- Start Early: Many grant programs have application deadlines or require detailed medical documentation. Start the process as soon as possible to ensure timely access to funds.
- Gather All Necessary Documents: Be prepared with medical records, proof of disability, and income documentation, as many grants require these as part of the application process.
- Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about the process, reach out to the organization or vendor for guidance. Many are happy to assist with the application process.
- Don’t Overlook Local Resources: In addition to national programs, check for local or state-level grants and funding sources that can help with vehicle modifications.
Contact Us for More Information
If you need help navigating these programs or if you’re looking for more resources to support your family, Invisible Capes Medical Solutions is here to assist you. We understand how overwhelming it can be to manage the financial and caregiving aspects of raising a child with special medical needs. Let us help you find the support and resources your family deserves.
Contact us today for personalized guidance on securing funding for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle or other medical equipment.