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American Wheelchair Mission

The American Wheelchair Mission is a project of the Global Wheelchair Mission, which purchases wheelchairs in bulk and distributes them globally by sea containers.

These wheelchairs are distributed with the help of various non-governmental organizations, including Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis Clubs, and the Knights of Columbus.

Since 2003, when the Knights of Columbus first sponsored 2,000 wheelchairs for Afghanistan, they have funded the distribution of over 35,000 wheelchairs across countries such as Argentina, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Jordan, Mexico, Morocco, Oman, Panama, the Philippines, Poland, the United States, and Vietnam.

For every $150 donation received, the Global Wheelchair Mission can deliver a new wheelchair, which would typically cost over $500 in a medical supply store. Wheelchairs are shipped directly from the factory in containers of 100-280 units to the destination country, free for the recipients.

Councils, assemblies, and circles are encouraged to promote this program, inviting both individual and collective participation as an ongoing charitable initiative.

Conducting a Wheelchair Drive

To conduct a successful Wheelchair Drive, follow these steps:

  1. Obtain permission and support from your parish pastor.
  2. Publicize the event several weeks in advance.
  3. During the event:
    • Introduce the DVD with a brief overview.
    • Play the DVD.
    • Inform the congregation that Knights will be available in a designated area to accept donations.
    • Advise parishioners to make checks payable to the American Wheelchair Mission and to mail them to the Wheelchair Program State Chairman for tracking purposes. Checks will be promptly forwarded to the American Wheelchair Mission.

If an organization raises enough funds for a full container, they may choose the distribution location.

Showing the DVD not only raises funds but also presents an opportunity to recruit new members, emphasizing Charity, the first principle of the Order. If a parish-wide fundraiser is not feasible, Grand Knights are encouraged to meet the State Deputy’s goal of a $150 donation to purchase one wheelchair.

Funding Goals for Containers

  • A small container (110 wheelchairs) requires $16,500.
  • A large container requires $42,000.

Councils raising enough funds for a container may choose the distribution location. The American Wheelchair Mission oversees all procurement and logistics.

Contact Information

  • Chairman: Bill Weber
    Email: yankeesweb@tx.rr.com
  • Assistant Chairman: Brian Nelson
    Email: abn091951@gmail.com

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