Hope Haven International Ministries (HHIM)
Rock Valley, Iowa
Pediatric Wheelchair Manufacturing
Project location: Antigua, Guatemala
$25,000 2008
www.hopehaveninternationalministries.org

The mission of HHIM is to assist persons with disabilities to reach their potential.  This purpose is accomplished by providing support for the development of opportunities for improving the economic, social welfare, and independence of people with disabilities within countries and cultures throughout the world.  

In 2001, after realizing an acute shortage of pediatric equipment, HHIM collaborated with global manufacturers and an industrial design team to create the KidChair to be produced for delivery to children throughout the world. KidChairs are lightweight yet strong, easy-to-assemble onsite without welding, and adapt to diverse physical challenges and varied terrain. 

ABSF funding provides general start-up support to produce KidChairs at HHIM's new Pediatric Wheelchair Manufacturing workshop in Guatemala.  These wheelchairs will be distributed locally and throughout Central America, and the workshop will employ Guatemalans with disabilities, hence enhancing their vocational skills and providing rare employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.   

View this YouTube video of workers at the Refugio de Esperanza Pediatric Wheelchair Factory in Antigua, Guatemala.