The Way Forward’s is looking to start a wheelchair loaner program called LAB. This loaner chair will serve a critical gap of time for paralyzed patients and help with immediate needs. The mission of LAB is to provide immediate access to mobility and independence during a critical time. Power chairs can be expensive and difficult to acquire quickly and having access to a temporary one allows individuals to continue their daily activities, maintain employment, attend medical appointments, and engage with their community without disruption. This program not only enhances quality of life but also alleviates stress for both the individual and their caregivers, ensuring they have the freedom and accessibility they deserve while navigating their unique mobility needs.

All equipment may be loaned out for as long as the person needs it. LAB is offered to anyone living throughout South Florida who is paralyzed. The main goal is to help with independence and a platform to improve overall long-term health for the chair user.

Millions of individuals depend on wheelchairs for daily mobility and each year there about 18,000 new cases of spinal cord injuries. Many face delays in acquiring a suitable chair due to insurance processing, unexpected breakdowns, or financial hardship. These barriers can significantly impact their independence, employment, medical care, and overall well-being. Without access to a wheelchair, people are often forced to stay home, limiting their ability to participate in life’s essential activities. There is a clear need for a reliable, temporary mobility solution to bridge these gaps which this program can answer.

The Way Forward LAB program will offer short-term access to power wheelchairs, ensuring that individuals remain mobile while awaiting permanent solutions. By providing an immediate, accessible, and affordable option, we will help people maintain their independence, the ability to continue working, attend medical appointments, and engage with their communities. Our program also promotes sustainability by refurbishing and repurposing mobility devices for ongoing community use.

The loaner program is designed to be simple and accessible. Individuals in need can apply through a streamlined process, where we assess their application through our website requesting requirements and match them with the appropriate wheelchair from our available inventory. Loans are typically provided for a set period, with extension options available. Once the wheelchair is returned, it undergoes cleaning and servicing before being made available for the next user. This cycle ensures that mobility aids remain in circulation and continue serving those in need.

Our program benefits a wide range of individuals, including those who are paralyzed and require a temporary power chair while waiting for insurance approval/delivery of their own permanent chair. By serving diverse needs of the paralyzed community, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to stay mobile, independent, and engaged in their daily lives.

Providing temporary mobility solutions can enhance someone’s life. The LAB program empowers individuals to maintain their independence, reducing the risk of isolation and depression caused by immobility. Individuals were made to enjoy and thrive in community. By bridging the accessibility gap, we help individuals continue working, attending school, and participating in social activities. Additionally, by offering a cost-effective solution, we relieve financial burdens for those who may struggle to afford a wheelchair outright. This program is not just about equipment—it’s about dignity, freedom, and equal access to mobility.

Our goal is to obtain six chairs and serve a minimum of six individuals annually depending on the period of time needed with each chair. The program will reduce wait times for mobility solutions and expanding partnerships with hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and disability advocacy groups. We aim to build a robust inventory of wheelchairs through donations and sponsorships, ensuring that we can meet the growing demand for temporary mobility assistance. By tracking our impact, gathering testimonials, and continuously improving our process, we strive to create a sustainable and effective solution for our community.

The success of our LAB program relies on generous contributions from donors, sponsors, and community partners. We welcome donations of wheelchairs and mobility equipment, financial sponsorships, and volunteer support for maintenance, distribution, and outreach efforts. By working together, we can ensure that no one faces mobility challenges alone. Every contribution—whether monetary, in-kind, or through volunteer efforts—helps us expand our reach and provide mobility solutions to those in need. Currently, we have received in-kind donations of chairs from Quantum Rehab and storage space from Shake-A-Leg Miami.

Begin to build on partnership with National Seating Mobility South Florida, they were serve as our repair and industry experts. They have agreed to enter a partnership to update & provide repairs as needed with a discounted pricing structure.

Six Power Wheelchairs = In-kind donation

Initial maintenance consultation = $500

Repairs and labor allocation per chair = $2,500 ($15,000 total for 6 chairs)

Board is prepared to allocate more funds after 9 month trial period