Learn how you can get a new wheelchair and/or a refurbished computer for FREE

Wheelchair / Computer Loan Program

Disabilities are as diverse as the people who have them. There are programs and services available to help you live free from dependence on other people. Explore this website to learn how you can live more independently…and with dignity!

Developing Relationships

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Independence means different things to different people. Suncoast Center for Independent Living is here to provide the tools and guidance you need to live the way you want and to connect with people who understand the issues you are facing.

Building Independence

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SCIL will help you face the day to day challenges of living with a disability. Services are provided free of charge (based on eligibility) so you can get what you need, when you need it.

Transition Center

Connecting to People

Building Pathways to Independence

Breaking Barriers

Helping Hands

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.

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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.

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Donate

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.

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NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

Suncoast Center for Independent Living (SCIL) operates programs and services without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, or status as a parent. Any person who believes she or he has been aggrieved by an unlawful discriminatory practice may file a complaint with Suncoast Center for Independent Living. For more information on SCIL’s civil rights program, and the procedures to file a complaint, contact Voice/CP/TDD 941-351-9545, email ; or visit our administrative office at 3281 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34235. If information is needed in another language, contact SCIL at (941) 351-9545.

Procedures & Compliance policy is available on the Resource & Forms page.

Suncoast Center for Independent Living

Política de no Discriminación

Suncoast Center for Independent Living (SCIL) opera programas y servicios sin distinción de raza, sexo, color, nacionalidad, discapacidad, religión, edad, orientación sexual o condición de padre. Cualquier persona que crea que ella o él ha sido perjudicada por alguna práctica discriminatoria ilegal puede presentar una queja ante Suncoast Center for Independent Living.

Para obtener más información sobre el programa de derechos civiles de SCIL y los procedimientos para presentar una queja, comuníquese con Voice / VP / TDD 941 351-9545, envíe un correo electrónico a o visite nuestra oficina administrativa en 3281 17th Street, Sarasota FL 34232 Para obtener más información, visite www.scil4u.org.

Si necesita información en otro idioma, comuníquese al (941) 351-9545.

CORE 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.

INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS

Independent Living Skills training services teach independent living skills in health and wellness, computers, financial management, social skills and household management. Independent Living Skills is conducted in a group setting based on the appropriate skill level of each Consumer. We work with each consumer to create an individualized Independent Living Plan (ILP) to set goals to develop the skills needed to live independently and participate in community activities.

TRANSITION

SCIL is committed to helping individuals with disabilities who desire and are able to have their needs safely met in a home seting with the necessary supports and services. Transition programs enable people who are at risk of entering or already are in institutional facilities to obtain community-based living situations.

Empowering People with Disabilities to Independence

19000

Pounds of Food Given Annually

300

Hours of Independent Living Skills Training Annually

100

Consumers Served Annually

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.

Get Out and Play!

Here is your chance to start a new exercise routine, learn about door recreation or add some fitness options to your active lifestyle.

ABOUT US

A nonprofit organization providing services to people with disabilities within Sarasota and Manatee counties. Our goal is to empower people with disabilities to take charge of their lives and guide them through their own destinies.

Mission: Empowering People with Disabilities to Independence

Vision: Expand and strengthen independent living services to create a fully inclusive society.

Eligibility: Services are free of charge and are provided to people with disabilities of all ages residing within Sarasota and Manatee counties.

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TESTIMONIALS

Thanks to SCIL I have been able to gain independence.
JL

I'm requesting this wheelchair because the pain that I have when walking is unbearable, and it makes me lose balance and fall. ~ CJ is thankful for the free equipment received by SCIL.
CJ

I need a walker to move safely because I don't want to fall while I'm alone at home or when I go out to run errands. CA is extremely happy with the equipment received by SCIL.
CA

I would like to receive a wheelchair to improve my independence moving around``. SCIL staff provided a wheelchair for P.H. She is highly satisfied with the equipment received by SCIL in partnership with FAAST.
PH