What is a wheelchair van grant?

A wheelchair van grant is a financial assistance program that helps people buy or repair a wheelchair vehicle. These programs may also assist with expenses related to vehicle ownership.

How do I apply for a wheelchair van grant?

The process for applying for a grant varies depending on the organization you are working with. However, the United Access team is well-informed on this topic and can provide guidance and instructions to get started with the grant application process. Whether you need assistance with finding the right grants for your needs or navigating the application process, our knowledgeable team is here to help.

Why are wheelchair vans so expensive?

The cost of wheelchair vans is higher due to the extensive modifications required to make them accessible for individuals with disabilities. These modifications include installing ramps or lifts, lowering the vehicle's floor to create more interior space, and adding specialized securing systems for wheelchairs. These modifications involve engineering, design, and high-quality materials, which contribute to the overall cost. Wheelchair vans also need to meet specific safety standards, such as reinforced floors and anchorage systems, which can further increase the cost. The relatively small market for wheelchair vans compared to non-modified vehicles also results in higher production costs and lower economies of scale, adding to the higher price tag.

Bridge to Mobility

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Grant Assitance

Bridge to Mobility is a national non-profit organization that is dedicated solely to increasing the accessibility to wheelchair accessible vehicles for those who can’t afford a private vehicle. They collaborate with and work alongside the leaders, manufacturers, dealers, suppliers, and employees in the wheelchair accessible vehicle industry to promote and support the mobility access needs of person with disabilities.

Bridge to Mobility’s Mission & Values

Bridge to Mobility has mobilized the entire wheelchair accessibility vehicle industry around changing the lives of deserving people who are unable to afford a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV). Dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers across the country have responded to our call for action with incredible commitment. Our volunteers and partners, serving on our Mission Team, have brought energy, expertise, and inspiration to ensure our success and achieve synergistic results in our combined missions.

Bridge to Mobility is guided by core values that include accessibility, ensuring that transportation solutions are available and accessible to individuals with disabilities, seniors, and low-income families. They prioritize equity, striving to promote fair and equal access to transportation services for all, regardless of socio-economic status or physical abilities. Additionally, the organization values empowerment, aiming to empower individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives by providing them with the necessary transportation options and support services. Inclusion is another key value, as Bridge to Mobility works to foster a sense of belonging and community by facilitating connections to essential services and resources through transportation solutions. Collaboration is central to their approach, as they work in partnership with other organizations, community members, and stakeholders to create comprehensive and sustainable transportation solutions that address the needs of the target population. Finally, advocacy is a core value, as Bridge to Mobility advocates for policies and initiatives that support accessible and affordable transportation options for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and low-income families.

How Bridge to Mobility Works

To kickstart your application process for a grant, begin by finding a National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) dealer in your area. Your NMEDA dealer will guide you through a needs analysis that will identify any gaps in financing for your wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Your NMEDA dealer will then submit a grant application on your behalf.

Bridge to Mobility Eligibility

Individuals with disabilities who need personal wheelchair accessible vehicles and those who demonstrate financial need are eligible for a grant from Bridge to Mobility. The organization works closely with NMEDA dealers to identify individuals who could benefit from their services. Additionally, individuals must be willing to participate in the application process and meet any other eligibility criteria set forth by the organization

To get started, find your nearest United Access location to schedule your needs analysis.

Find a Dealer

Frequently Asked Questions about Wheelchair Van Grants

How do I apply for a grant from Bridge to Mobility?

To qualify for a Bridge to Mobility grant, individuals must have a disability and demonstrate financial need. The grant application process involves working with a NMEDA dealer who will assess the applicant's needs and assist with the grant application. The dealer will determine the type of vehicle and equipment needed, as well as assess the applicant's financial capacity to own, insure, and maintain the vehicle. If there is a funding gap, the dealer will submit a grant application to Bridge to Mobility on the applicant's behalf. Applicants will be notified of the grant application outcome by their NMEDA dealer.

What level of grants does Bridge to Mobility provide?

Individuals with disabilities who need assistance with purchasing a wheelchair-accessible vehicle can apply for a grant from Bridge to Mobility. The grant amount is $5,000 and is intended to help cover the down payment on a used wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV). Applicants must show that they can afford monthly vehicle payments and associated costs but lack funds for the down payment. The goal of the grant is to make WAVs more affordable by reducing financing costs and potentially shortening the loan duration.

How often does Bridge to Mobility award grants?

Wheelchair accessible vehicle grants are awarded quarterly.

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