faq

What is the focus of Global Mobility?

We distribute and custom fit wheelchairs and provide medical services for children and adults in developing countries around the globe.

How is Global Mobility unique?

Global Mobility provides a wheelchair or other appropriate ambulatory equipment that addresses each individual’s specific disability and mobility needs. We offer training and education in basic wheelchair functionality, maintenance, and care to our recipients and their families and caregivers, as well as other organizations, NGOs, community or business groups. Global Mobility promotes independence, inclusion, education, and employment.

Why focus on wheelchairs?

Without mobility, a person is reliant on others for even the most basic care. Dependence fosters disempowerment and perpetuates false perceptions about the role of people with disabilities within their society. Each wheelchair we provide changes the life of its recipient, as well as the lives of entire families, and even the community. The change is immediate and dramatic.

What medical services are offered?

Our wheelchair and seating clinics are often accompanied by a team of doctors and nurses. We hope to assure the health and well-being of our recipients and their families.

I know someone who needs a wheelchair here in the US, can Global Mobility help?

We distribute wheelchairs primarily outside the U.S. We may, however, know of resources to help people who need a mobility device here at home. Contact us.

I want to donate ambulatory aide equipment (wheelchair, walker, commode, etc.).

Contact us to make arrangements.

How many people in the world need a wheelchair?

The World Health Organization estimates that 100 million people need a wheelchair. Only about one in ten even has access to one. The needs are great.

What makes Global Mobility tick?

Our expert staff and volunteers have a long and distinguished history of collaboration and posses intimate knowledge of the countries we serve. We are a people-first organization, culturally sensitive, non-denominational, non-partisan, and non-political. As such, Global Mobility has the flexibility to partner with all types of non-profit organizations, NGOs, and public and private companies around the world.

How can I support your organization? How can I help?

There are several ways to support GM. The best way is by contacting us.

Where are you located?

We have offices and warehouse facilities in Southern California.

How do you get your wheelchairs?

Global Mobility partners with leading wheelchair designers and technology engineers to offer an array of active, pediatric, sports, and complex wheelchairs. We refurbish donated wheelchairs, work with in-country facilities to manufacture chairs, and also import a small portion of the chairs we distribute.

How do you get them to people in developing countries?

We work with partner organizations in the host country to identify people who need them; we organize shipment and coordinate each team of seating specialists to fit and adjust each chair for each user.

How much does a wheelchair cost?

We estimate each wheelchair costs about $250 to manufacture, deliver and fit.

I want to give money to support a specific country. Can I do that?

Yes. Please contact us to make sure we have the resources and capability for the country you want to support.

Can I participate in a Global Mobility wheelchair distribution and seating clinic?

We sometimes have space on a distribution team, especially if you have specific skills related to seating and mobility. See our Calendar for upcoming distributions. Contact us about joining a team.