If you reside in Maryland, you have numerous options for securing disability grants and other assistance if you’re trying to afford a wheelchair van. The resources below are routes to financial aid. You can get help purchasing a handicap van or creating one with vehicle modifications, such as scooter or wheelchair lifts or ramps, turning automotive seating systems, or adaptive driving hand controls.
The list below are agencies, associations, and organizations that award grants that may be put towards a handicapped van, while some offer more indirect assistance by helping you locate (and sometimes apply for) Maryland-based disability grants for which you may qualify. The Mobility Resource is happy to provide this research to help you on your way to an independent life.
Remember, local chapters of disability-specific associations are also prime sources for grant money and other help if you can’t afford a wheelchair van on your own.
Mobility Consultations: If you are unsure about what type of conversion would be best for you — or would like assistance with finding financial resources, you can request a Free Needs Analysis and Mobility Consultation at any of The Mobility Resource dealer locations.
Disclaimer: This information is intended to assist you in your purchase or financing of a wheelchair van, and is in no way an offer or advertisement for a free wheelchair van.
SOURCES FOR MARYLAND DISABILITY GRANTS AND ASSISTANCE:
The Department of Aging
For elderly people in Maryland and those who care for them, the state’s Department of Aging offers information and assistance. The agency provides a variety of services and can help you locate funding sources for a handicap van.
301 West Preston St., Suite 1007
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 767-1100 or (800) 243-3425
Family NETworks
This is an essential resource for anyone in Maryland living with (or living with someone who has) a disability. Avail yourself of it to find state disability grants, sources of support and more. Sponsored and maintained by the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, the website offers a wealth of reliable information on all aspects of living with a disability.
1001 Eastern Ave
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 659-7701
www.marylandfamilynetwork.org/
Jill Fox Memorial Fund
Set up in memory and honor of 19-year-old Jill Fox, this fund helps people suffering from various illnesses acquire the special equipment and care they cannot afford. It awards grants only to Maryland residents, but to people of all ages, races, religions and disabilities.
101 W. Mt Royal Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
(410) 369-9322
Maryland Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)
Maryland’s ADRCs, spread across the state, are part of a national organization promoting self-reliance and a high standard of living for the elderly and the disabled. Use this link to find extensive information and contact information for the office serving your county.
http://www.211md.org/AgingandDisabilityResourceCenters
Maryland Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
Maryland’s chapter of this national agency for senior citizens is run through the State’s Department of Aging. If you or a loved one requires a handicap van due to age-related mobility limitations, this is a good place to turn. Use the link provided to find the office nearest you and its contact information.
301 West Preston St., Suite 1007
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 767-1100 or (800) 243-3425 (toll free, Maryland)
Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC)
The DDC in Maryland serves all in-state persons with developmental disabilities, as defined by Federal law. If a developmental disability has left you or your family requiring handicapped-accessible transportation, the Council may help you secure grants.
217 E. Redwood Street Suite 1300
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 767-3670 or (800) 305-6441
Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
This agency supports the independence of persons with disabilities by helping them find and keep jobs. They offer direct financial assistance for getting a wheelchair van and with handicapped accessibility vehicle modifications. Find your county’s location and contact information at DORS website or reach their main administration office at:
2301 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218-1696
(410) 554-9442 or (888) 554-0334
Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)
The Maryland Governor’s SILC helps state residents with disabilities lead more self-determining, independent lives. This is a major resource for finding funds to put toward your wheelchair van.
2300 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 554-5412 or (866) 996-0961
Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MTAP)
MTAP operates under the auspices of the Maryland Department of Disabilities. It aims to promote independence and quality of life for the state’s elderly and disabled by increasing access to assistive technology. They do not have funding for grants. However, they are an information center for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and their funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services helps provide information, guidance and training on the ADA.
(800) 832-4827
http://mdod.maryland.gov/mdtap/Pages/MDTAP-Home.aspx
These are only some of the resources available for Maryland disability grants and assistance.
If you work with or know of another Maryland agency or organization that should be listed here, please forward its information to [email protected].
