People with mobility limitations will now be able to enjoy the Pontiac region’s many bodies of water thanks to a new floating beach wheelchair made available by a new partnership between two local organizations.
The chair, which features a frame, two armrests and three large floating wheels, allows people with mobility challenges to enter the water at beaches or swimming pools. It was purchased by the Access Squad, a local group that promotes accessibility and social participation for people living with functional limitations across the Pontiac.
The group previously purchased an evacuation chair for people with mobility challenges, and in the spring ran a campaign celebrating local businesses that have made accessibility accommodations.
Member Murielle Croisetière said that the goal of having this new chair is to help people with mobility limitations to be able to get out and enjoy the outdoors.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s caused by age, or disease, or anything. If you’re limited and you’re stuck in your house or apartment, we’re trying to come up with anything we can that you can still enjoy life and get out of the house,” she said.
For safety reasons, the person in the chair must be accompanied by another person who holds and guides the chair from behind, using a handle.
During a testing session at the start of the summer, Croisetière said several people gave positive reviews of the chair as it helped them enjoy the beach in a way they could not before.
“It was really excellent. I saw them when they came out, and they all said that [it was great], and the people maneuvering it [said so too], because it was a windy day and there were waves. It was really easy to turn and come back to the shore.”
The group also highlighted three beaches in the Pontiac that have improved accessibility by placing special carpets on the sand in order to help people in wheelchairs access the beachfront. These can be found at Mansfield-et-Pontefract’s Pont Blanc beach, the Bryson beach and the Norway Bay beach.
Croisetière said that the chair is available immediately. With only a few weeks left of summer, she encouraged anyone who wants to use it to give it a try. Bookings can be made through TransporAction du Pontiac, at least 48 hours ahead of time. They can be reached by phone at 819-648-2223, option 1 or by email at info@transporaction.com.
The chair must be picked up at the TransporAction office, at 1226A, Hwy 148 in Campbell’s Bay.
