This month marks a significant milestone for the Possibilities Project Plus, our free Ontario-wide online assistive device marketplace. Launched a year ago, this initiative was created with the following mission: to make assistive devices accessible to everyone. Today, we are not only celebrating the donation of 50 devices to individuals, but also recognizing the profound impact these donations have had on improving quality of life.
Over the last year, we’ve seen the impact of how access to free assistive devices can be transformative. In times of hardship, connecting individuals the devices they need to live the best version of their life is invaluable.
I was at a point where I needed to make a transition from hospital to home. With limited finances it seemed very difficult to do but the Possibilities Project came to my rescue. We found a wheelchair porch lift and with the kindness and consideration of the Possibilities Project we also received an over-the-bed table. So now I can get into my home. The independence is a wonderful feeling.
Testimonial from PPPlus user
While individuals who require assistive devices are at the forefront of the Possibilities Project Plus, it has also been rewarding to hear from various other interdisciplinary members. Clinicians, social workers, and service navigators have been instrumental in guiding individuals to our platform, and they have witnessed first-hand the positive effects on the clients’ lives.
In a conversation with Hannah Bear, a Service Navigation Coordinator at Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO), she shared her experience working closely with individuals who have spinal cord injuries, helping them navigate the essential services and resources needed to live independently and fully participate in their communities.
This year, Hannah was able to connect individuals with ten assistive devices. In particular, she shared a case of helping one client obtain a scooter so that they can accessibly attend classes at university in the fall. She shared that without the Possibilities Project Plus, many clients either must wait for funding through community grants, delaying the independence of performing daily life activities, or they would have to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket. Hannah and I reflected on how this is a reality for many who cannot afford devices at a reasonable cost, which deepened our appreciation for the Possibilities Project Plus
Moreover, Hannah highlighted the severe consequences for older individuals who cannot access necessary devices. For several clients, she was able to obtain walkers, wheelchairs, and commodes through the Possibilities Project Plus. However, without these devices, such individuals would have to turn to long-term care, significantly hindering their independence and quality of life.
The high cost of assistive devices is a significant barrier for many individuals. However, financial strain is just one of many challenges—they also face difficulties in finding platforms that meet their needs and often lack knowledge about where to access essential resources. In this regard, The Possibilities Project Plus helps to ease the burden of finding a reliable site for procuring an assistive device.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate the one-year milestone, we are filled with gratitude for the support and collaboration that has brought the Possibilities Project Plus to life. The stories shared by individuals who received a device, as well as the experiences of clinicians and service navigators is a testament to the platform’s importance and lasting impact.
We are committed to expanding this project and are hopeful for this service to reach more individuals for years to come, so that together we can enable accessibility and empower possibilities.
Comments