Equipment Program
Muscular Dystrophy Canada understands that there are often financial implications as a result of having muscular dystrophy. Wheelchairs, scooters, orthotics, hospital beds, and other essential equipment and repairs can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Not only is equipment expensive, but other necessities like attendant services, travel for medical appointments, massage therapy and home renovations related to accessibility can add up as well.
An important part of fulfilling Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s mission is alleviating financial pressures for people with neuromuscular disorders and their families, and enabling Canadians with neuromuscular disorders to lead independent lives.
This is where two of Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s programs can help. The Equipment Program and the Community Services Fund are designed to assist with necessary expenses.
Equipment Program
Community Services Fund
Equipment Program
Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s longstanding equipment program has helped thousands of people with neuromuscular disorders obtain the equipment they need to live independently and participate in the community.
Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s Equipment Program covers the following:
| Access Equipment | Lifts |
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| Bathroom Aids | Miscellaneous |
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| Beds and Mattresses | Mobility Aids |
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| Breathing Aids | Seating and Positioning Aids |
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| Orthopedic Devices | |
*eligible for replacement funding after 1 year
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Are you interested in receiving funding through our equipment program? Please call your regional services office in order to determine your eligibility. Our friendly and caring services staff will guide you through the application process and even suggest other potential funders if necessary. It is important to involve us early in the process. Muscular Dystrophy Canada will not issue reimbursements for equipment.
For each request for funding, you need to complete the application process and receive approval prior to purchasing the item. Please note that a prescription from a heath professional is required.
Western Region: 604.732.8799 ext. 111, Toll-free: 1.800.366.8166
Ontario and Nunavut: 416.488.2699 ext. 164, Toll-free: 1.800.567.2873
Quebec: 514.393.3522 ext. 223, Toll free: 1.800.567.2236
Atlantic Canada: 506.450.6322, Toll-free: 1.888.647.6322
To apply for funding, please complete the appropriate regional application form:
Western Canada (BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, NWT, Yukon)
Atlantic Canada (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland/Labrador, PEI)
More about Our Regionally-based Equipment Program
Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s Equipment Program is operated on a regional basis in order to best meet the needs of clients, given the provincial government funding models and the financial resources available though Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s fundraising initiatives.
From time to time, Muscular Dystrophy Canada may be able to provide additional support beyond the established equipment program guidelines. These exceptional opportunities are driven by donors/funders whose contribution was designated for a specific purpose. For example, items such as van modifications, home renovations, and equipment for a secondary or temporary residence are typically excluded from our equipment program, but funding may occasionally become available.
If you have questions, please call the services assistant in your area (see above).
Community Services Fund
Are you registered with Muscular Dystrophy Canada? Are you a Chapter member living within the area served by the Chapter? Are you in need of help with funding?
Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s Chapters are here to help!
A percentage of funds raised by Chapter groups through local special events and activities are allotted to the Community Services Fund. This fund enables people affected by neuromuscular disorders to benefit from the hard work and generosity of their peers, friends and community members.
The Community Services Fund (CSF) provides a way for Muscular Dystrophy Canada clients and Chapter members to be supported by their own community. The CSF program is intended to financially complement the existing regional services program and to allow for some community flexibility through the Chapter. Applications are reviewed by a Community Services Fund Committee, and are kept in confidence. Please note that a prescription or statement of need from a heath professional is required.
The Community Services Fund Committee can approve requests (up to a maximum of $1,000) to:
i. Supplement amounts provided by Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s Equipment Program
ii. Provide financial assistance to enhance the health and quality of life of those with neuromuscular disorders, including but not limited to:
- Respite Services for Caregivers
- Attendant Services
- Fees for formal adapted recreational programs, including summer camp
- Massage therapy, including insurance co-pay
- Physiotherapy, including insurance co-pay
- Life Line Services
- Travel for medical appointments, including participation in clinical trials
- Home renovations related to accessibility
- Vehicle modification
- Adaptive Technologies/Environmental Control Units
- Equipment repair
- Travel and registration support to attend a conference/symposium that will benefit the quality of life of the individual with a neuromuscular disorder
Muscular Dystrophy Canada Chapters participating in Community Services Fund program:
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The CSF Application Form is available here.
