Funds are used to purchase specialized equipment for children with disabilities to assist with the everyday tasks that others may take for granted.

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    The Children's Ability Fund is NOT currently accepting applications

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Applications may be made to fund equipment such as, but not limited to -

 

Mobility Devices: wheelchairs, elevating seats, tilt systems, walkers, strollers, overhead lift systems, vehicle lifts, tie downs, platform lifts, porch lifts, ramps, standing frames, car seats, adapted bicycles, etc.

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Assistive Technology: communication devices, signaling devices, TTY's, FM systems, Braille printers, specialized keyboards, head trackers, touch screens, etc.

 

Miscellaneous items:  hospital beds, etc.

 

Areas of Non Support:

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• Travel Costs

• Job Training

• Medical Expenses

• House renovations and modifications

• Elevators

• Scooters

• Scooter Lifts

• Maintenance/Repair

• Hearing Aids

 

For more information or for an application form, please contact: 

Marilyn Melnychuk 
Client Care Coordinator
780-454-9191 Ext. 225

CRITERIA

Applications are accepted from children and young adults residing in Alberta. Clients must be a Canadian citizen or have permanent resident status in Canada.  Applications are rated High, Medium or Low.

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Each individual client request will be evaluated on the following:

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1.  Disability  - Any impairment in physical or mental structures or functioning that results in a limitation in activities or ability to participate in life activities, including self care, mobility, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working.  Not all disabilities are visible. Impairments and resulting limitations must be confirmed by a medical practitioner.

2. Financial Need - Each request is looked at on an individual basis ~ the Low Income Cutoff from Statistics Canada is used as a guideline. Family income is considered in the case of a dependent young adult (up to the age of 21) living in a family home. We also recognize the economical impact of living in a northern community as defined by Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

3. Ratings - High / Medium / Low

• High ~ Basic needs - Equipment that will enhance the activity of an individual

• Medium ~ Quality of Life - Equipment that will enhance an individual's participation in life

• Low ~ Recreational - Equipment that will provide recreational opportunities

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Applications will be prioritized and equipment granted within the financial guidelines and budget restrictions of the Fund as approved by the Board of Directors.

 

LIMITATIONS

Standard guidelines for funding have been set to a maximum of $10,000. Caps have been placed on the Bikes for Tykes program to a maximum of $1,000. Clients up to and including the age of 21 may be eligible for funding yearly.

 

Appeals

There is no appeal procedure. The client/family is invited to re-apply if their situation changes significantly.

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Programs for Individuals

 

Bikes For Tykes

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The Bikes for Tykes program was introduced to provide funding for the adaptation of a bicycle for the individual needs of a child with a disability. Our goal is to provide a means for a child to participate in the everyday activities that all children enjoy; riding to the park, exploring unknown territory, and spending time with friends.  Bikes provide an independent mode of transportation that helps build self-esteem and gives a sense of freedom.  Special adaptations to a bicycle can help a child with disabilities "delight in being a child".

The scope of this project ranges from minor adaptations to a fully customized bicycle to provide the necessary support for a child's personal needs. Cost of adaptations can range from $500 up to $1,800 for a customized bicycle.

 

Special adaptations include:

• special foot plates

• back support

• handlebar modification

• braking system modification

• specialized training wheels

• drive train modification

• wheelchair bicycle additions

 

Parents of children in the Edmonton and surrounding areas are encouraged to contact the You Can Ride 2 Program at youcanride2.ca as we support this program annually.

 

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