Changing lives through Mobility (1st Annual Wheelchair Drive)

In partnership with the American Wheelchair Mission, the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council began in 2007 to purchase and fulfill the needs of people that cannot afford a wheelchair. The Knights Supreme Council sponsors the events enabling every $150 donated to go directly toward purchasing a delivered wheelchair. It is estimated that a single wheelchair can positively affect the lives of 10 people.

Bill Weber the Diocese Wheelchair Coordinator, SK Kevin Quinn and PGK Steve Snyder of the Richardson Knights Council 8954 brought this event to the attention of Father Jason Cargo of the St. Joseph’s Parish in Richardson, Texas. Bill Weber who is also the Wheelchair Coordinator at Prince of Peace Parish in Plano, Texas, just concluded raising over $90,000. In comparison, the Knights in neighboring parishes have raised an additional $30,000. Taken together these funds will directly provide an estimated 800 wheelchairs and assist 8,000 people.

Enthusiastically upon hearing the presentation, Father Cargo said, “This is exactly the community outreach that we are trying to foster”, and immediately scheduled two weekends setting an initial goal of 50 wheelchairs.

St. Joseph’s Parish, with the help of the Knights of Columbus 8954, has just concluded their initial drive the last 2 weekends of July. The goal set by Father Cargo was surpassed within the first day and continued with the generosity of the St. Joseph’s parishioners exceeding $22,000 which will purchase 146 wheelchairs assisting the lives of many. Online forms are still available and the donations continue at www.AmWheelchair.org