1. Adaptive Recreation (AR) and Wilderness School (WS)

Power To Be Adventure Therapy Society

The Adaptive Recreation Program an adventure based therapy and recreation program which provides adaptable equipment so people with disabilities can enjoy and connect to nature. Activities include: kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, gardening, camping and environmental stewardship. Participants can choose to enrol for a single, one-time activity or participate in ongoing, multi-activity group programs. Power To Be also operates a Wilderness School, a 4 year program for at-risk youth, where participants learn a variety of wilderness and life skills through hands on learning strategies.

Address:
1009 Langley St.
Victoria, BC, V8W1V7

Contacts Page

2. Aids to Independent Living

Canadian Red Cross

This Red Cross program provides free loans of medical equipment to adults coping with long-term illness and disabilities, who do not have the financial resources to purchase or rent the necessary equipment. This service is provided to Home Health clients living in the following areas: Abbotsford, Agassiz, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Chilliwack, Delta, Hope, Langley, Maple Ridge, Mission, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Richmond, Surrey, Vancouver, West Vancouver, White Rock. Clients must be referred by an occupational therapist or physiotherapist from their local health unit. Note: Equipment is not available to clients in extended care facilities and there is a waiting list for some items.

In the Fraser East area: 604 859-5960

3. ALS Society of BC

The society provides education and support for people diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their families. The person must become a member of the society to acquire equipment, which is free. Through their province-wide equipment loan program the society provides mobility, respiratory, aids to daily living and communication devices.

Address:
208 - 1600 West 6th Avenue
Vancouver, BC, V6J1R3

Contacts Page

4. Arthritis Society BC and Yukon Division

The Arthritis Society provides information about arthritis and referrals to available supports and resources. It delivers arthritis health promotion, advocacy and educational programs. Regional centres have learning materials and information on events and programs in various communities in BC.

Contacts Page

Arthritis Answer Line Phone (lower mainland): 604 875-5051

5. Assistive Technology for Employment

Employment Action

The Employment Action Center offers employment and disability counselling for persons with disabilities. It offers assistive technology for those wishing to return to work through the Assistive Technology for Employment Centre (ATEC), which is a joint project of the Neil Squire Society and the Vancouver Foundation's Disability Supports for Employment Fund. The Vancouver Foundation manages this $20 million dollar endowment from the Government of British Columbia.

Address:
300 - 1268 5th Avenue
Prince George, BC, V2L3L2

Contacts Page

6. Assistive Technology for Employment Centre (ATEC)

The Assistive Technology for Employment Centre (ATEC) network is a partnership of community organizations in seven B.C. communities that trains people in how to use assistive technology, and helps them trial and evaluate a range of alternative computer input and output devices. Coordinated by the Neil Squire Society, it also maintains a website to provide information on assistive technology and ergonomic equipment. Visit the website for the listing of locations and other information on how to access services.

Address:
220 - 2250 Boundary Road
Burnaby, BC, V5M3Z3

Contacts Page

7. Assistive Technology Services, Career and Employment Services, Computer Training, Consumer Products Support, Low Vision Services

The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB)

The first step in accessing CNIB services and programs is registration and referral through local CNIB offices or associated community agencies. CNIB offers a variety of programs including assistive technology, employment, low vision services, computer training, counselling and support services, travel and independent living support, and a library for people with a print disability. CNIB also provides consumer product support, which allows people with vision loss to become familiar with devices before buying.

Address:
100-5055 Joyce Street
Vancouver, BC, V5R6B2

Contacts Page

8. BC Paraplegic Association

The BC Paraplegic Association (BCPA) offers a wide variety of services to support people with mobility impairments. The Association does not loan or take donations of equipment, but individuals may post items needed or for sale on the classified section of their website. The website also hosts an online resource database. A limited number of grants are available for equipment through the BC Paraplegic Foundation - applications can be obtained through BCPA. BCPA members are given priority for BCPF grants.

Address:
780 SW Marine Drive
Vancouver, BC, V6P5Y7

Contacts Page

9. BC Rehab Foundation

BC Rehab Foundation provides support to people with disabilities through education, research, arts, recreation and wellness programs. They fundraise for equipment, education, and research, in addition to providing advocacy services.

Address:
4255 Laurel Street
Vancouver, BC, V5Z2G9

Contacts Page

10. British Columbia Guide Dog Services

British Columbia Guide Dog Services (BCGDS) breeds, raises and professionally trains guide dogs for blind and visually impaired adults and youths (min. age 13). BCGDS provides the guide dogs to citizens for a symbolic 'one dollar'. For the duration of the team's working life annual aftercare services are provided.

Address:
6050 44th Ave
Delta, BC, V4K3X7

11. Canadian Abilities Foundation

Abilities.ca is a source of information for persons with disabilities, both for general information and for information about how to obtain equipment.

Address:
401 - 340 College Street
Toronto, Ontario, M5T3A9

Contacts Page

12. Canadian Deafblind and Rubella Association-BC Chapter (CDBRA-BC)

The Canadian Deafblind and Rubella Association-BC Chapter is a registered not-for-profit organization that is committed to assisting all individuals in BC who are Deafblind to achieve, with intervention, the best quality of life. CDBRA-BC believes that individualized lifelong intervention is a right for every person who is Deafblind and that all individuals who are Deafblind should live in a safe, healthy environment and have the self respect and dignity due every Canadian. CDBRA-BC also aims to promote awareness and recognition of Intervention and Deafblindness as a unique disability.

Address:
713 Columbia Street
New Westminster, BC, V3M1B2

Contacts Page

13. Canadian Red Cross - BC Coastal (Haida Gwaii, Gulf Islands, Bella Bella, Bella Coola, Powell River)

Canadian Red Cross

There are four regions in British Columbia that provide services and programs to provide individuals with medical equipment they may need to borrow. There are more than 90 Medical Equipment Loans Service (MELS) depots located throughout British Columbia. Please contact your local Red Cross regional office for the depot nearest you or consult your local phone directory. Please contact the offices directly to discover what programs are available in your community.

Address:
909 Fairfield Road
Victoria, BC, V8V3A3

Contacts Page

14. Canadian Red Cross-Interior

Canadian Red Cross

There are four regions in British Columbia that provide services and programs to provide individuals with medical equipment they may need to borrow. There are more than 90 Medical Equipment Loans Service (MELS) depots located throughout British Columbia. Please contact your local Red Cross regional office for the depot nearest you or consult your local phone directory. Please contact the offices directly to discover what programs are available in your community.

Address:
5-1414 Hunter Court
Kelowna, BC, V1X6E6

Contacts Page

15. Canadian Red Cross-Lower Mainland

Canadian Red Cross

There are four regions in British Columbia that provide services and programs to provide individuals with medical equipment they may need to borrow. There are more than 90 Medical Equipment Loans Service (MELS) depots located throughout British Columbia. Please contact your local Red Cross regional office for the depot nearest you or consult your local phone directory. Please contact the offices directly to discover what programs are available in your community.

Address:
3400 Lake City Way
Burnaby, BC, V5A4Y2

Contacts Page

16. Canadian Red Cross-Northern

Canadian Red Cross

There are four regions in British Columbia that provide services and programs to provide individuals with medical equipment they may need to borrow. There are more than 90 Medical Equipment Loans Service (MELS) depots located throughout British Columbia. Please contact your local Red Cross regional office for the depot nearest you or consult your local phone directory. Please contact the offices directly to discover what programs are available in your community.

Address:
1399 6th Avenue
Prince George, BC, V2L5L6

Contacts Page

17. Canadian Red Cross - Vancouver Island

Canadian Red Cross

There are four regions in British Columbia that provide services and programs to provide individuals with medical equipment they may need to borrow. There are more than 90 Medical Equipment Loans Service (MELS) depots located throughout British Columbia. Please contact your local Red Cross regional office for the depot nearest you or consult your local phone directory. Please contact the offices directly to discover what programs are available in your community.

Address:
909 Fairfield Road
Victoria, BC, V8V3A3

Contacts Page

18. CanAssist

CanAssist, University of Victoria

CanAssist designs customized assistive devices for individuals with disabilities (these devices are usually unavailable commercially). The community can make technology requests by contacting the organization or downloading the request form online and there is no charge for the equipment. The program is based at the University of Victoria, and has a research component as well. CanAssist may take on both high tech and simpler projects, and has a strong volunteer and student involvement. While most work is done for clients on Vancouver Island, people throughout BC may also be able to access their services.

Address:
Room 343, Engineering Office Wing 3800 Finnerty Road
Victoria, BC,

Contacts Page

19. Cerebral Palsy Association of BC

The Cerebral Palsy Association of BC provides information and referrals to individuals about organizations that may have equipment and assistive devices for people who are living with or affected by Cerebral Palsy. They also provide information about organizations that might fund equipment.

Address:
801 - 409 Granville Street
Vancouver, BC, V6C1T9

Contacts Page

20. Children's Medical Equipment Loan Service (CMERLS)

Canadian Red Cross

The Children's Medical Equipment Recycling and Loan Service (CMERLS) provides specialized medical and therapeutic equipment for BC children aged birth to19 years who are eligible for benefits from the Ministry of Children and Family Development 'In Care' and 'At Home' programs. CMERLS also provides equipment to individuals, not-for-profit organizations, and schools without equipment funding for special needs children in their care. Requests for equipment must be made by a health care professional.

21. Children and Family Programs

Fraser Valley Child Development Centre

Through the various programs offered by the Fraser Valley Child Development Centre, people may obtain information and referrals for equipment and assistive devices. The Kids in Action program has a Loans Cupboard which offers the use of adapted sport and recreational equipment to children with special needs at home, school and in the community.

Contacts Page

22. Children and Youth with Special Needs Fund

Giving in Action Society

The Children and Youth with Special Needs Fund provides grants to families who have children or youth (birth-19 years) with special needs living at home. The Fund offers one-time grants to help improve the individual's health, development or ability to participate in daily activities at home, in school and in the community. The grant may be used for such things as home renovations and vehicle modifications.

Contacts Page

23. Community Access Point (CAP) Equipment Loan Services

Richmond Disability Resource Centre

The Richmond Disability Resource Centre (DRC) provides information and referrals to people with disabilities for their participation in the life of the whole community to the level of their desires and abilities. The Community Access Program (CAP) specializes in assistive technology of hardware and software to accommodate various special needs of computer users. The Equipment Loan Services provides a small selection of equipment such as canes, crutches, walkers and manual wheelchairs, free of charge, to people who need the equipment for a short duration, or maximum three months.

Address:
100-5671 No. 3 Road
Richmond, BC, V6X2C7

Contacts Page

For more detailed information on programs see: http://www.drcrichmond.ca/pdfs/centre_services07.pdf TTY: 604 232-2479

24. Community Access Program, Assistive Technology Peer Support, Parking Permits Employment Program

Vernon Disability Resource Centre

The Vernon Disability Resource Centre provides information and referral, as well as peer support for adults & youth, a computer/internet tutoring program, parking permits, and several employment and pre-employment programs.

Address:
107 - 3402 27th Avenue
Vernon, BC, V1T1S1

25. Community Access Program (CAP) Assistive Technology for Employment Centre (ATEC)

Disability Resource Centre of Victoria

The Disability Resource Centre of Victoria hosts a number of programs, including information referral, peer support, skills development and disability parking permits. They may provide referrals for equipment and assistive devices. The Community Access Program (CAP) provides access to the internet for people who may not have computers or internet access. Assistive technology, including hardware and software accommodates various needs of computer users. The Assistive Technology for Employment Centre (ATEC) helps people evaluate a range of alternative computer equipment, offers the ability to try out and evaluate equipment over time and the opportunity to train with the assistive technology.

Address:
817a Fort Street
Victoria, BC, V8W1H6

Contacts Page

ATEC Email: atec@drcvictoria.com

26. Disability Supports for Employment Fund (DSEF)

Vancouver Foundation

This fund supports initiatives by non-profit, charitable organizations that will promote the social and economic independence of individuals with disabilities.

Address:
1200-555 West Hastings Street Box 12132, Harbour Centre
Vancouver, BC, V6B4N6

Contacts Page

27. Disabled Sailing

The Disabled Sailing Association

Disabled (adaptive) sailing is accessible and inclusive and promotes freedom and independence. Even people with no movement below the neck, with the use of 'sip n' puff' technology, can sail safely and independently. DSA-BC operates eight specially designed Martin 16 sailboats, for people aged 8 and up. Sailing allows people to enjoy independence and freedom, whether as a recreational activity or a competitive high performance endeavour. Sailing instruction is available, and participants range from complete novices to highly competitive.

Address:
Head Office, 207-3077 Granville Street
Vancouver, BC, V6H3J9

Contacts Page

28. EDGE Program

I AM CARES Society

The EDGE Program offers training and support to job seekers who have disabilities or chronic conditions. It is a four week program with graduated hours and on-going supported job search. It provides assistance handling employment and disability related issues and access to an individualized job developer. It may provide adaptive technology and equipment for use on-site when needed.

Address:
Head Office (Burnaby) Suite 102 - 5623 Imperial Street
Burnaby, BC, V5J1G1

Contacts Page

See link for contact information for Surrey, North Shore and Vancouver locations.

29. Employment Planning and Employment Search

Employment Resource Centre for Persons with Disabilities

The Employment Resource Centre for Persons with Disabilities offers services to persons with disabilities or chronic health conditions. It provides: case management/resource coordination, assistance with vocational and medical assessments, career counselling, job search and coaching, assistance with access to training.

Address:
330 - 10362 King George Highway
Surrey, BC, V3T2W5

Contacts Page

30. Enhanced Community Medical Equipment Loan Service (ECMELS)

Canadian Red Cross

Enhanced Community Medical Equipment Loan Service (ECMELS): Loans more complex equipment such as power equipment, patient lifts, bath lifts, hospital beds, and requires a referral from a health care professional. ECMELS currently serves therapists and nurses practicing in the Capital Health Region only (Greater Victoria, Western Communities, Sooke, Saanich Peninsula, and the Gulf Islands). This equipment must be ordered directly by a Health Care Professional (OT, PT and Home Care nurses) who will oversee the installation and instruction on proper usage of equipment. The loan period can be up to 6 months. Palliative clients can borrow equipment for as long as is needed.

Address:
909 Fairfield Road
Victoria, BC, V8V3A3

31. Equipment Provision Program

Multiple Sclerosis Society of BC and Yukon Division

The MS Society offers a variety of client services including supportive counselling, education, information, referral, volunteer advocacy and the Equipment Provision Program (EPP). The EPP provides equipment, funds to purchase new equipment or funds to repair existing equipment. To qualify for assistance through the equipment provision program you must: (1) Have a diagnosis of MS (2) Be a resident of BC (3) Have a medical recommendation supporting the equipment need (4) Have limited or no other program eligibility (5) Fall within the MS Society 'Family Financial Guideline Scale.'

Address:
1501 - 4330 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC, V5H4G7

Contacts Page

32. Family Independence Fund

The Family Independence Fund helps families in BC who have children or adults with developmental disabilities living at home. Grants from the Family Independence Fund help with the every day care of the relative by providing support for projects such as home renovations - including lifts, elevators, ramps, flooring, door widening or vehicle modifications - that enable an individual with a developmental disability to live in the family home and take part in activities in their community.

Contacts Page

33. Hearing Loss Resource Program, Technical Aids Program

Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre

Assistive listening devices and alerting equipment for individuals with hearing loss are available through the Hearing Loss Resource Program. Devices include personal listening systems, amplifying telephones, TTYs, amplifying systems for the TV and alerting systems for the home. There is a small loan program for clients to try equipment at home before purchasing. The centre also provides education, counselling, group support, employment and vocational services, interpreting and captioning services, as well as family and community support and volunteer opportunities.

Address:
300 - 1627 Fort Street
Victoria, BC, V8R1H8

Contacts Page

Phone: 250 592-8144 TTY: 250 592-8147 Toll-Free TTY: 1 877 667-5488 Nanaimo Office 205 - 55 Victoria Road Nanaimo, BC V9R 5N9 Phone: 250 753-0999 Toll-Free: 1 877 424-3323 TTY: 250 753-0977 Toll-Free TTY: 1 877 424-3323 Fax: 250 753-9601E-Mail: nanaimo@idhhc.ca

34. Kinsmen and Kinettes of BC and Yukon

Kinsmen Foundation of BC and Yukon

The Kinsmen Foundation of BC and Yukon accepts applications to provide funding assistance for persons with severe physical disabilities to acquire equipment and assistive devices.

Address:
PO Box 34005 Stn D
Vancouver, BC, V6J4M1

35. Learning Disabilities Association of BC

Learning Disabilities Association of BC

The Learning Disabilities Association of BC - Vancouver, provides information and referral in the areas of education, support and advocacy for adults and children with learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They offer a public resource library, remedial programs on site for children, support, and education for parents, community outreach/referral service, and educational workshops for the general public.

Address:
3292 East Broadway
Vancouver, BC, V5M1Z8

Contacts Page

36. Lifeline

Lifeline medical alarms are worn on the body, and may be used to send a call for help in an emergency 24 hours/day. Lifeline Programs offer a range of service and equipment for personal safety. Fees may vary from region to region, as the service is provided by a variety of service providers, most of whom are non-profit organizations.

Contacts Page

37. Medical Equipment Loan Service (MELS)

Canadian Red Cross, Medical Equipment Loan Service

This community-based, volunteer-run program provides short-term loans of basic medical equipment, by donation, to those recovering from surgery or injury, or living with mobility limitations. Available equipment includes wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and bathroom aids. Referrals from a health care professional are required for most items.

There are more than 90 MELS depots located throughout British Columbia. Please contact your local Red Cross regional office for the depot nearest you or consult your local phone directory.

38. Mobility Equipment Loan Program

Muscular Dystrophy Canada (Western Region)

Muscular Dystrophy Canada offers many services. The Equipment Loan Program provides basic medical equipment on loan (bathroom equipment, lifting, orthopaedic devices and mobility devices including seating and positioning devices) as well as referrals to other organizations that may be able to provide assistance.

Address:
Muscular Dystrophy Canada (Western Region) 7th Floor, 1401 West Broadway
Vancouver, BC, V6H1H6

Contacts Page

39. National Amputee Centre

The War Amps

The War Amps Adult Amputee Program provides financial assistance to Canadian amputees for the purchase of artificial limbs.

Address:
2827 Riverside Drive
Ottawa, Ontario, K1V0C4

Contacts Page

40. Neil Squire Society

The Neil Squire Society offers a variety of ergonomic and technology related programs, including computer literacy training, and computer accessibility for persons with disabilities. Where appropriate these are provided to persons with disabilities as an alternative to the fee-based service.

Address:
220 - 2250 Boundary Road
Burnaby, BC, V5M3Z3

Contacts Page

41. Neil Squire Solutions

Neil Squire Solutions trains people in how to use assistive technology, and helps them trial and evaluate a range of alternative computer input and output devices. They also provide ergonomic assessments in workplaces or at home - as well as in their well-equipped 'lab'. As a social enterprise, many services are provided on a fee-for-service basis.

Address:
220 - 2250 Boundary Road
Burnaby, BC, V5M9T6

Contacts Page

42. Outdoor Recreation

British Columbia Mobility Opportunities Society

BC Mobility Opportunities Society provides opportunities for people with physical disabilities to explore the outdoors, centered around the TrailRider. This is a specially designed, single-wheel, remote access wheelchair that enables the user, propelled by two able-bodied helpers, to take part in wilderness and recreational activities.

Address:
207 - 3077 Granville Street
Vancouver, BC, V6H3J9

Contacts Page

Seasonal office for summer program bookings: BCMOS Wilderness Access program, Pacific Spirit Regional Park 4915 West 16th Avenue Vancouver, BC Phone: 604 222-1312 Email: bcmossummer@disabilityfoundation.org

43. Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS)

PADS raises and trains dogs for people who have a physical disability or are deaf or hard of hearing. People with disabilities, other than blindness, who can demonstrate their need for an assistance dog are eligible for a PADS dog. Individuals must be 16 or over for the service dog program and 18 or over for the hearing dog program.

Address:
9048 Stormont Avenue
Burnaby, BC, V3N4G6

44. Parking Permits for Persons with Disabilities

Parking permits are available for persons with disabilities in many parts of the province.

Parking permits for many regions of BC are administered by the SPARC office (see SPARC). Regional Organizations that provide parking permits are as follows: City of Kelowna 250 763-6011 Cowichan Valley Independent Living Resource Centre 250 746-3930 Kamloops People in Motion 250 376-7878 Nanaimo Independent Living Centre 250 758-5547 Peninsula Community Services (Sidney) 250 655-4402 Richmond Disability Resource Centre 604 232-2404 Vernon Independent Living Resource Centre 1 877 288-1088 Victoria Disability Resource Centre 250 595-0044 Westcom Media-Lend (Langford) 250 478-5373

45. Parking Permits for Persons with Disabilities (SPARC)

Social Planning & Research Council (SPARC) of BC

SPARC BC provides parking permits for persons with disabilities in many regions of BC. Downloadable application forms are available on the SPARC BC website.

Address:
4445 Norfolk Street
Burnaby, BC, V5G0A7

Contacts Page

46. People in Motion

People in Motion provides information and referral services and operate an adaptive recreation equipment program for persons with disabilities. They supply those in the Kamloops area with specialized recreation devices to encourage participation in outdoor activities. Parking permits for persons with disabilities are available.

Address:
182B Tranquille Road
Kamloops, BC, V2B3G1

47. PLAN Institute for Caring Citizenship

The PLAN Institute fosters belonging by creating networks, developing resources, cultivating innovation and promoting thinking to enable the contribution of people who are isolated and marginalized. They deliver training and consultation to individuals, families, organizations and service providers. They offer on line access to publications, training and a library.

Address:
260-3665 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC, V5R5W2

Contacts Page

48. Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN)

PLAN is a not-for-profit charity created by and for families who have a relative with a disability. Their goal is twofold: to ensure a safe and secure future for your relative with a disability and, in the process, to provide you and your loved ones with peace of mind. In pursuit of this goal they are inspired by a simple but powerful vision: the vision of a good life for all people with disabilities and their families. PLAN provides assistance with future planning and network development.

Address:
260-3665 Kingsway
Vancouver, BC, V5R5W2

Contacts Page

49. Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP)

The Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP) aids people who need assisted ventilation to meet their respiratory needs while living in the community. The program provides a wide range of equipment and supplies, respiratory therapy, education and peer group support. PROP clients can call a respiratory therapist 24 hours a day.

Address:
9007 Shaughnessy Street
Vancouver, BC, V6P6R9

Contacts Page

50. Recycled Medical Equipment Program

Opportunities for the Disabled Foundation

Recycled Medical Equipment Program accepts donations of medical equipment which is refurbished to suit the needs of clients with disabilities. The equipment is then donated to them for personal use on permanent loan (the foundation maintains ownership). The foundation loans wheelchairs, scooters, and other essential equipment.

Address:
319 - 4538 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC, V5H2B1

51. Scholarship and Mentorship

Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC)

AEBC is an education and advocacy organization of blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted Canadians, providing advocacy, scholarship and mentorship programs and information resources.

Contacts Page

52. Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons

Western Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

The Western Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing provides a wide variety of services to support persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. These include: audiological assessments, ASL interpreters, employment counselling and other employment related services, selling TTYs, hearing aids and visual alert systems and repairing and providing some hearing aids. The MIS provides Sign Language interpreting services for deaf citizens and their health care providers on a 24hr 7 days a week basis throughout BC. For EMERGENCIES call the Medical Interpreting Service Emergency only line (24 hours / 7 days a week) and they will send an interpreter to the hospital as fast as possible.

Address:
2125 West 7th Avenue
Vancouver, BC, V6K1X9

Contacts Page

LOWER MAINLAND: Voice: 604 736-7391...TTY: 604 736-2527...Fax: 604 736-4381....OKANAGAN: Phone: 250 763-3854...TTY: 250 763-3547...Fax: 250 763-7608....EMERGENCY: Voice (Vancouver):604 736-7039...Voice (Long Distance):1 877 736-7039...TTY (Vancouver):604 736-7078... TTY (Long Distance):1 877 736-7078...NON-EMERGENCY VANCOUVER: 604 736-7012...Toll-free:1 877 736-7012...TTY :604 736-7099...Fax: 604 736-7786... VANCOUVER ISLAND General & Emergencies: TTY (Victoria):250 592-8147...Voice (Victoria):250 592-8144....TTY Toll Free:1 877 667-5488...Voice Toll Free:1 877 667-5448

53. Sports Wheelchair Loan Program

BC Wheelchair Sports

BCWSA programs are designed to introduce and support continued involvement of individuals with physical disabilities in wheelchair sports and recreational opportunities, promoting an active healthy lifestyle and improved quality of life. Developmental programs are offered throughout BC to give participants an opportunity to learn and develop sport specific skills. The Wheelchair Loan Program makes sport wheelchairs available, for a limited time, for ongoing BCWSA programs and new participants so that cost is not a barrier to participation.

Address:
Suite 210 - 3820 Cessna Drive
Richmond, BC, V7B0A2

Contacts Page

54. Technology for Independent Living

This program delivers and services electromechanical assistive devices for individuals with severe physical disabilities. Technology for Independent Living (TIL) provides services in two main areas: Augmentative Communication Systems (ACS) and Environmental Control Systems (ECS). ECSs allow people with severe physical disabilities to control devices in their homes. ACSs are a range of devices which enable people who cannot speak or write to communicate with others. TIL provides permanent loans of these devices and systems. Presently, these technologies and services are provided at no charge (including installation, labour and ongoing maintenance and repair) to people with fixed or limited incomes.

Address:
9007 Shaughnessy Street
Vancouver, BC, V6P6R9

Contacts Page

55. Tetra Society

The Tetra Society of North America is an independent non-profit that recruits skilled technical volunteers to design and fabricate custom assistive devices for people with disabilities. Tetra volunteers create innovative solutions for people with needs that cannot be met by commercially available products. Tetra was established in 1987, and now has 16 chapters in communities across British Columbia. Clients are asked to pay just for their volunteer's mileage and materials costs, when possible.

Address:
207-3077 Granville Street
Vancouver, BC, V6H3J9

Contacts Page

56. The Palliative Equipment Program

Canadian Red Cross

The Red Cross Palliative Equipment Program operates in the municipalities of Richmond and Vancouver. Clients are referred to this program by nurses, occupational therapists, or physiotherapists in community health centres or hospitals.

Inquiries by health professionals: Phone 604 709-6634 or 604 709-6633

57. Variety, The Children's Charity

Variety - The Children's Charity raises funds and distributes grants throughout British Columbia to assist children who have special needs and their families. Variety covers expenses relating to emergency medical needs, physical and occupational therapies, specialized equipment and travel and accommodation costs for families. Variety also assists organizations that help children and families, such as child development centers and neo-natal intensive care units across B.C.

Address:
4300 Still Creek Drive
Burnaby, BC, V5C6C6

58. Wheelchair Basketball & Sport Wheelchair Loan Program

BC Wheelchair Basketball Society

The BC Wheelchair Basketball Society (BCWBS) is a not-for-profit sport organization and registered charity that provides support to wheelchair basketball programs throughout BC. Participants are offered the opportunity to compete in introductory, developmental, competitive and elite levels of programming. To ensure that access to equipment is not a barrier to participation, the BCWBS Wheelchair Loan Program makes sport wheelchairs available for BCWBS programs and participants not having the means to purchase their own. Also, it is an option for those new to the sport looking to explore what type of chair is best for them before purchasing their own.

Address:
210-3820 Cessna Drive
Richmond, BC, V7B0A2

Contacts Page