Joni and Friends debuts the Cub wheelchair to better serve pediatric chair users
May 02 2024 - 10:09AM
When Joni and Friends distributes wheelchairs in low-resource
countries, people with disabilities arrive being pushed in
wheelbarrows, dragged on mats, or carried by loved ones.
The global need for a wheelchair is growing every year, and
demand always outpaces donations. We know this because after every
Wheels for the World wheelchair outreach, hundreds of people are
left still waiting—including children.
To meet the growing need for pediatric wheelchairs, Joni and
Friends was pleased to help develop a next-generation pediatric
mobility device, the Cub wheelchair.
Joni and Friends worked with the manufacturer to develop
features to better suit the wheelchair for environments in
developing nations like narrow doorways, unpaved streets, and small
vehicles.
Joni and Friends was invited to speak into the design process
because our organization has distributed over 225,000
wheelchairs around the globe through our Wheels for the World
program, which since 1994 has provided restored wheelchairs that
are lovingly fit to each individual in developing
countries.
Our Wheels for the World program started with small wheelchair
drives in schools and churches. Now in its 30th year, Wheels for
the World is supported by one dozen wheelchair restoration centers,
including 11 that operate out of correctional facilities in the
U.S. and provide incarcerated individuals with the dignity of a
helpful trade.
Contributions to the Cub chair from our experts resulted in
innovations like the ability to tilt in space, a third wheel to
navigate austere terrain, and an adjustable seat that allows
critical modifications to be made without a skilled mechanic,
making it possible for the chair to grow with the child. But most
importantly, the Cub chair can collapse down and be taken apart to
fit into a car, or easily transported upstairs.
Designed for austere conditions, the Cub wheelchair made its
Wheels for the World debut at our 2023 outreach in the Philippines.
Since then, we have delivered these wheelchairs in countries
including Uganda, Guatemala and Thailand, with hundreds more set to
be distributed this summer.
Joni and Friends distributes a variety of pediatric wheelchairs
through our Wheels for the World outreaches, including restored
wheelchairs. No chair is one-size-fits-all. But the Cub wheelchair
is a valuable option that helps us accommodate some of the world’s
most vulnerable children.
Eighty million around the globe need a wheelchair, but less than
35% have access to one. Properly fitted wheelchairs can change
lives.
Learn more about the Cub chair:
https://joniandfriends.org/wheels-for-the-world/joni-and-friends-sees-the-urgent-need-for-pediatric-wheelchairs/
About Joni and Friends
For more than 40 years, Joni and Friends has provided the hope
of the Gospel and practical care to people living with disability
across the globe. Ministry programs include Joni’s House, Wheels
for the World, Family Retreats, and disability ministry training.
Joni and Friends also delivers daily inspirational media through
radio programs and podcasts. To find out more, please visit
www.joniandfriends.org.
- A pediatric wheelchair for all environments
Amy Hurtado
Joni and Friends
818.575.1766
pr@joniandfriends.org