You Can Help Send 1,500 Wheelchairs to Honduras!

A while ago, Chantel Corrie, Executive Director of Midwest Mission, received a book from a faithful volunteer named Dan Blank. The book, Miracle Wheels, opened her eyes to a staggering reality: 80 million people around the world need a wheelchair, according to the World Health Organization.

“I was shocked by that number,” Chantel said. “The vast majority live in developing countries and don’t have the means or access to get a wheelchair. The thought of someone being forced to crawl or be carried because they couldn’t afford a wheelchair ... it was heartbreaking. All that stands between them and a life of independence is a simple piece of equipment.”

While we knew we couldn’t provide 80 million wheelchairs, we also knew we could be part of the solution. That opportunity came during a trip to Honduras this past March. While visiting CEPUDO’s warehouse with our partner Food For The Poor, we were introduced to the wheelchairs donated by Free Wheelchair Mission, the same organization featured in Miracle Wheels. These are beautifully made, custom-fitted wheelchairs designed for those who meet specific medical criteria.

But not everyone qualifies. And that’s where we felt called to step in.

“Right there in the warehouse,” Chantel recalled, “The Holy Spirit revealed the gap we were meant to fill, getting wheelchairs to people who don't qualify for these custom chairs, but are still in desperate need.”

We asked CEPUDO how many wheelchairs were needed in the hospitals, children’s homes, and nonprofits they serve.

Their answer? 1,500.

And so this Wheelchair Initiative was born.

We’re inviting you to help us meet this urgent need.

One of the best ways you can help? Donate a gently used wheelchair, or help us find one.

Often, people are more than happy to give when asked. It frees up their space, and gives them a meaningful way to make a difference.

Here are just a few places to look:

• American Legions & VFWs

• Nursing homes & physical therapy offices

• Estate & yard sales

• Salvation Army, Goodwill, or resale shops

• Friends and family

You can bring wheelchairs, that are in good condition, to a Midwest Mission location or a Permanent Collection Site near you.

Every wheelchair donated brings someone a little closer to a life of freedom, mobility, and dignity!

We recently heard a heartwarming story from one of our generous donors.

The Sewing Space: A Donation Story: 

This donor gifted 10 sewing machines to Midwest Mission. She shared that her mother used to host a group of women in her home, where they would gather to sew lap robes for senior centers, a tradition they kept going for over 20 years!

When her mother could no longer sew, she and her husband decided to donate all of the machines to their affiliated church, so they could continue being used for good. Their daughter later took over and created a permanent sewing space, complete with more than 20 machines, cutting tables, and donated fabric. This space became a welcoming, designated area where women could come together and sew anytime.

As newer machines were donated over time, they eventually found themselves with more machines than they had room for. When they heard about Midwest Mission’s use for sewing machines, they knew exactly what to do with the extras.

It is so heartwarming to know that these 10 machines have been passed down through generations and handled with such care and love. Now, we get to find them a new home, bringing opportunity and empowerment to people around the world. What a beautiful legacy to carry forward!

Thank you to the ladies from The Sewing Space for your generous donation. Your story is truly inspiring, and we are honored to give your machines a second life while continuing to spread hope across the globe!