Sarasota Needs Shelter Information
The public must register in advance to use the Special Needs Shelter. The Sarasota County Special Needs Shelter is a shelter of last resort for people with special medical needs. The shelter provides for safety and very basic needs during an emergency.
To register, call 941-861-5000. If you need help with the application, please contact SCIL at 941-351-9545.
COVID-19 Status Update
Suncoast Center for Independent Living provides FREE transportation services (Uber, Lyft, and SCIL Ride) to get our consumers to and from their vaccination appointment. Please call 941.351.9545 for more details.
Work With Us!
Suncoast Center for Independent Living has job openings!
EMPOWERMENT
SCIL knows that you are not your disability. By focusing on your abilities and providing resources to offset your disability, SCIL hopes to empower you to be independent and live life on your terms. We offer programs that support employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence and inclusion in your community.
HOW WE HELP
Our goal is simple: to help you get what you need to live independently and with dignity. Our services are offered free of charge to residents of Sarasota and Manatee counties, regardless of age, education, or disability. If you have a disability, we want to help.
DONATE TODAY
Everyone has something to give and everyone has something they need. Donating to Suncoast Center for Independent Living can unify us in our mission to empower people with disabilities to independence. Your gift, no matter the size, makes a difference…in your life and in someone else’s.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
SERVICES
Advocacy
SCIL provides you and your family guidance when faced with challenges to access support systems, benefits and services. Let us help you speak up and be heard.
Information & Referral
SCIL provides information about community resources that can help you accomplish your personal goals, including acquiring and learning to use assistive technology, understanding and signing up for medical benefits and Social Security and housing information.
Peer Mentoring
No one knows what living with a disability is like better than another person who lives with a disability. SCIL’s Peer Mentoring Program enables you to interact with staff who understand the challenges you face and can help you strategize how best to deal with them.
Support & Resources
SCIL offers support by connecting you to other people and organizations that understand and can help. By coordinating resources and connecting to others, you can make sure living with a disability is not an isolating experience.
OUR MISSION
Empowering People with Disabilities to Independence
PROGRAMS
Transition Programs for Adults & Youth
Independence means knowing how to take care of yourself and the demands of life. To help with these challenges, SCIL offers several basic and advance courses.
Computer Equipment Loan
SCIL loans refurbished computers and other computer-related components to people with disabilities
Portable Modular Ramps
Being able to get in and out of your home safely is necessary to live an independent life. SCIL builds portable modular wheelchair ramps at your home to allow easier access.
Medical Equipment Loans
If you lack the financial income or insurance to cover the cost of purchase, SCIL will loan you durable medical equipment on a long- or short-term basis. Equipment includes grab bars, reachers, bed rails, transfer beaches, and much more.
Emergency Special Needs
When an emergency arises, you need help immediately! SCIL can provide access to vital equipment such as manual and power wheelchairs, walkers, and lift chairs.
Our Vision
Expand and strengthen independent living services to create a fully inclusive society
NEWS
ADA Event 2022 Was Successful!
The ADA Event was a huge success! The community and all involved had a great time.
JP-PAS Overview
The James Patrick Memorial Work Incentive Personal Attendant Services & Employment Assistance Program The James Patrick Memorial Work Incentive – Personal Attendant Services & Employment Assistance Program (JP-PAS) was created by the Florida Legislature to...
All Faith’s Food Bank Partnership
Suncoast Center for Independent Living is a proud partner of All Faiths Food Bank. Once a week Suncoast Center for Independent Living delivers free canned goods and frozen items to those disabled in need during this difficult time while helping them maintain their...