White Rock’s Beach Wheelchair Program Faces Urgent Challenges

UPDATE: The future of White Rock’s beach-accessible wheelchair program is in jeopardy as efforts to revive it face significant hurdles. Wheelchairs that were donated almost a decade ago have not been available for public use in over six years. Community advocates are pushing for solutions, aiming to re-establish the program by summer 2024.

Residents and city officials are grappling with the need for a sustainable lending program after the original chairs were rendered inactive following the closure of Feral Boardsports in July 2019. Marissa Hadland, who is part of the city’s accessibility committee, expressed her resolve, stating, “Certainly, people are dedicated to working on it. I’m sure we can figure something out.”

Initially launched in 2016, the program began with fundraising by the Self Advocates of Semiahmoo (SAS) and private donations. However, both chairs have been stored at UNITI since their initial availability ended. Recent discussions during the July 29 accessibility committee meeting revealed that there is currently “no budget” to implement proposed solutions, including a summer-student program to manage the chairs.

Jim Gordon, the city’s director of municipal operations, indicated that while there is space to store a wheelchair at Memorial Park, there is insufficient budget allocation to hire someone to oversee its availability. The lack of facilitation has been cited as a significant barrier, with Gordon noting that a previous self-serve container for the chairs was underutilized.

During the committee meeting, members raised questions about alternative management solutions, including potential involvement from the White Rock Museum & Archives and local youth ambassadors. There is also a pressing need to explore grant opportunities to fund the program. Committee chair Bill Lawrence acknowledged the logistical challenges faced in managing the lending program, stating, “There’s a lot of logistics that come into play.”

SAS has previously indicated its commitment to finding a sustainable solution. The organization was inspired to initiate the fundraising campaign after a poignant story from self-advocacy speaker Onkar Biring in 2015, emphasizing the need for accessible beach experiences. To date, SAS has successfully acquired four wheelchairs through fundraising efforts.

Accessibility committee members reiterated the urgency of addressing outstanding issues, such as borrowing durations and funding mechanisms. Until these matters are resolved, the two beach wheelchairs designated for public use will remain in storage.

Hadland, motivated by her own experiences with mobility challenges, stated, “They should have every right to enjoy the beach as much as the rest of us.” Her commitment to this cause is evident as she plans to explore additional funding avenues and connect with neighboring jurisdictions to learn about their successful management practices.

The next committee meeting is scheduled for October 28, where further discussions will take place. Hadland is also utilizing her platform as a moderator for the White Rock/South Surrey Community Group Facebook page to engage community members in the search for solutions.

A recent post by the Equal Access Collective highlighted the importance of community involvement, stating, “Let’s build programs that invite everyone in – not just the few with the tools and support to get there.” This initiative underscores the pressing need for inclusivity and accessibility in recreational spaces along White Rock’s waterfront.

As discussions continue, the urgency to re-establish the beach wheelchair program is palpable, with advocates rallying for immediate action to ensure that all residents and visitors can enjoy the beach experience. Will the community come together to make this vital program a reality before next summer?