Browse Categories: Disability & Accessibility

Lends wheelchairs, walkers, bath seats, commodes, and other home health equipment on a short-term basis to people in Metro Vancouver. The program runs on donations, so there is no rental fee. A referral from a doctor, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist is required before equipment can be borrowed. Call to arrange a referral and a pick-up time.

BC regional office of March of Dimes Canada, supporting people with disabilities, stroke survivors, and people with acquired brain injuries across the province. Programs include aphasia and communication support, attendant care, home and vehicle modification funding, stroke survivor support, and accessibility services for employers. Call to find out which program fits and how to apply, since each program has its own eligibility rules. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm.

National nonprofit helping adults with disabilities use technology and find work. Programs include free one-on-one computer tutoring (Computer Comfort), an Assistive Technology Help Desk, device adaptations through Makers Making Change, and job-search support such as Group Employment Skills and the Job Focus program. Most services are free and available by phone, online, or at the Burnaby office. Call or visit the website to find out which program fits.

Nonprofit helping people with disabilities and their families plan for the future, including the Registered Disability Savings Plan, the Disability Tax Credit, the Canada Disability Benefit, and estate and future care planning. The free Disability Planning Helpline takes questions by phone or online form from anywhere in Canada. Leave a message and an advisor calls back, though response can take up to ten business days during busy periods. Also runs webinars and workshops on these topics.

Provides peer support, resources, and advocacy for people living with spinal cord injuries and related mobility disabilities across British Columbia. Services include peer mentoring, accessibility navigation, assistive technology and mobility equipment resources, support navigating housing and community living, and information about health and chronic condition management. SCI BC also offers adaptive recreation and community programs that help people stay active and connected. Individuals can access support by contacting the organization directly by phone or online to connect with staff or trained peer mentors and learn about available programs and resources.

Provincial Crown corporation that funds and coordinates supports for adults 19 and older with a developmental disability, autism spectrum disorder, or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder who need significant daily help. Supports can include residential options, employment help, family support, and community participation programs, delivered through local offices and funded community agencies. There is no cost to apply. Contact the local office or call the main line to start the Welcome and Planning process and check eligibility.

Advocacy organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families across BC. Helps individuals and families with self-advocacy and navigating systems like education, housing, and employment, and campaigns for policy change at the provincial level. Call ahead to book an appointment before visiting the New Westminster office. A separate advocacy phone line is also available.

Accessible parking permits for people with mobility limitations, issued by SPARC BC on behalf of the province. The permit can be used whether the holder is driving or riding as a passenger, and does not require owning a vehicle. A medical professional with a valid MSP number must sign the application form, available online or by mail, and there is a $31 processing fee (hardship assistance is available for those who cannot pay it). Permanent permits last three years and are renewable; temporary permits last one to twelve months and need a new application to extend.

Support organization for people living with ALS and their families across British Columbia. Offers a free equipment loan program for mobility and care devices, support groups, counselling, and educational resources about living with ALS. Call, email, or use the patient registration form on the website to connect with a regional coordinator.

Nonprofit offering sports and recreation programs across BC for people who are blind, partially sighted, or deafblind. Programs include athletics and an Active Living Network with virtual fitness classes open to adults of all ages, including seniors. Office is in Burnaby. Call or email to register, or attend a Have-A-Go introductory session.

Nonprofit organization offering wheelchair sports programs across BC, including athletics, tennis, and rugby, for people with disabilities of all ages and skill levels. A wheelchair loan program is available at low monthly or yearly rates, with financial assistance for those who need it. Office is in Marpole. Call, email, or attend a Have-A-Go Day to get started.

Nonprofit run by disabled and neurodivergent people, offering education and peer support on disability and accessibility. Runs workshops on disability awareness and disability justice, plus paid consulting for organizations. Chronically Queer, a peer support group for 2SLGBTQIA+ people with chronic health conditions, meets twice a month. Contact by phone or through the website to book a workshop or ask about the support group schedule.

Vancouver office of March of Dimes Canada, a national charity for people with disabilities. Helps adults with disabilities find and keep jobs through employment services, and partners with After Stroke BC to support stroke survivors and people with acquired brain injuries. Services are free and by appointment only. Call to book an appointment. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4pm.

Free online information to help people understand and apply for disability benefits, income assistance and other income-support programs, and understand tenancy rights, in British Columbia. The website has FAQs, quick-reference guides, fact sheets, forms, and links to other resources, so people can advocate for themselves. Because of reduced funding, the phone line and live chat have been discontinued. Questions go through an online contact form, and replies may take time due to limited staff. Also trains community service providers on benefits and tenancy issues.

Nonprofit delivering home care, nursing, and community living support across Metro Vancouver for seniors and people with disabilities. Services include contracted home support, licensed practical nurse visits, home-share and supported housing programs, and a community living program that helps people connect with community activities. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm, with a 24-hour phone line for emergency client support. Call to ask about eligibility and how to start a service.

National charity, now branded MS Canada, providing support, education and advocacy for people living with multiple sclerosis and their families, across BC and Yukon. Offers one-on-one and group peer support, wellness and education programs, an equipment fund, and advocacy on issues like disability insurance and human rights. Free to use. The organization no longer keeps a walk-in BC office. The closest physical office is in Victoria, open limited hours, so contact by phone or online.

National charity providing support, education and advocacy for people living with neuromuscular disorders such as muscular dystrophy, and for their families, including in BC. A regional support specialist for BC and Yukon offers emotional support, education sessions, and referrals, reached at 1-800-567-2873 extension 4304. A separate equipment funding program helps cover the cost of mobility equipment and assistive devices. Free to use. Contact by phone or email, as there is no walk-in BC office.