HHIM has a Wheelchair Shop in the South Dakota State Penitentiary.  Sixty inmates work to refurbish and manufacture wheelchairs for free distribution around the world.  Inmates completely rebuild old, discarded wheelchairs and manufacture new pediatric chairs for children with disabilities, such as cerebral palsy.  Additionally, they craft all the seating systems - back, seat, head support, cushion, and restraints - for all HHIM wheelchair shops.  Inmates use industrial sewing machines and modern tools to construct and assemble the chairs.

The inmates have the opportunity to work in various work programs at the Penitentiary, but many choose to work in the HHIM shop because they feel they are providing a service to others.  Several inmates feel they are providing a freedom to men, women, and children with disabilities.  A freedom that many of them will never see.  The gift of a wheelchair to people in developing countries, is a gift of mobility and dignity that provides the opportunity for work, education, and independence.

HHIM's work in the prison began in the Fall of 1995.  Since then, inmates have logged over 750,000 community service hours (as of 10/2008).

    
Bear sews cushions and bags for the chairs    Three inmates work on a refurbished wheelchair

HHIM welcomes people to tour the Wheelchair Shop in the SDSP.  If you're interested in visiting the facility, please contact Michelle Kuiken to schedule a tour.  The forms below must be completed and submitted to Michelle, two weeks prior to any scheduled tour. 

Mail forms to:
Hope Haven International Ministries
Attn: Michelle Kuiken
1800 19th Street
Rock Valley, IA 51247