Wheelshelps

Wheelshelps is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding mobility for people who rely on wheel-based mobility devices. The organization funds, refurbishes, and distributes wheelchairs, provides maintenance services, and advocates for accessible design.

Wheelshelps was established in 2010 by disability advocates, engineers, and wheelchair users in Seattle. It began with community repair clinics and equipment drives and expanded to a global network by the late 2010s, forming partnerships with manufacturers and clinics to scale impact.

Core activities include refurbished wheelchair distribution programs, repair and maintenance clinics, spare-parts procurement, training for caregivers, and accessibility consulting for schools, workplaces, and public entities.

They operate refurbishment centers that refurbish donated wheelchairs to safe condition, provide low-cost or rental options, and run mobile repair vans. They also administer grant programs to cover equipment costs for low-income individuals and support local repair initiatives.

Wheelshelps reports serving tens of thousands of individuals across multiple countries, reducing isolation and increasing independence. Evaluations emphasize improved daily functioning, ability to participate in education and employment, and reduced downtime due to repairs.

The organization is governed by a volunteer board and relies on donations, grants, and partnerships with manufacturers and healthcare providers. It emphasizes transparency and open-source repair guidance to promote sustainable mobility solutions.