Disability Grants in California

Last Updated on August 23, 2023 by Hannah Stevens

This article has collected and compiled sources of California disability grants for residents to apply towards a wheelchair van. This includes state government agencies and local organizations that provide assistance and funding. Several of these groups offer financial aid, while others point you to the right resources for these purposes. There are hard-to-find options which you might be eligible for, but you won’t have known on your own.

Disability grants for mobility can be used to lease or purchase a brand new or used handicap van. They can also be used to cover the cost of converting a van into a handicapped-accessible vehicle with ramps or lifts, adaptive driving controls, turning automotive seating systems, and other modifications. California offers financial assistance for anyone who wants to preserve their independence.

Furthermore, don’t forget about state chapters of foundations or associations dedicated to your cause of limited mobility. Many provide financial assistance for people who are affected by the area of their interest. They can also help you find additional resources and grants for disabled people.

Sources For California Disability Grants And Assistance

California Aging and Disabilities Resource Centers (ARDCs)

California’s many ARDCs can help disabled and elderly residents get their handicap van. Every person with a disability or aging can benefit from the extensive list of services and resources they offer. 

To learn more, contact a certified mobility consultant through (800) 510-2020.

California Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A)

C4A oversees California’s 33 Area Agencies on Aging. They are located throughout the state, they’re the place to go if you or a loved one needs a wheelchair van, accessibility equipment, or conversions to preserve mobility and freedom.

California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR)

This is the state government agency for vocational rehabilitation. It’s dedicated to helping disabled Californians live independently and equal lives by helping them find and keep work. When it is necessary, it awards wheelchair vans with disability grants. 

Contact Information:

P.O. Box 944222

Sacramento, CA 94244-2220

(916) 324-1313

California Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

You may be eligible for financial aid if your limited mobility is due to service in the US Military or VA care, or if you have a pre-existing condition that was made worse by these circumstances. This will likely cover the cost of purchasing a handicap van. California veterans should contact the State VA.

Contact Information:

1227 O Street

Sacramento, CA 95814

(800) 952-5626

This is the same as the Veterans Affairs which is one of the Disability Grants in Colorado.

California State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD)

California SCDD grants money to help the developmentally disabled. It also strives to make sure that they have all the assistance and services they need to be able to self-determine. Federal and State laws mandate that the Council be chaired and staffed by persons with developmental disabilities.

Contact Information:

1507 21st Street, Suite 210

Sacramento, CA 95811

(916) 322-8481 or (866) 802-0514

[email protected]

California Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)

The SILC in California is made up of 18 governor-appointed members who are charged with supporting and advancing the principles of independent living. It is a broad advocacy organization that does not provide financial assistance, but it is an important resource.

Contact Information:

1600 K Street, Suite 100

Sacramento, CA 95814

(916) 445-0142 or (866) 866-7452

This is similar to the SILC which is one of the Disability Grants in Arkansas.

San Diego Assistive Technology Center (SDATC)

SDATC assists California’s disabled population to learn about assistive technology and obtain it. They also assist with funding.

Contact Information:

6153 Fairmount Ave.,

Suite 150

San Diego, California 92120

(858) 571-7803