To assist persons with disabilities, seniors, and family caregivers gain easier access to assistive device resources, the Hsinchu County Government has commissioned Eden Foundation to operate the Hsinchu County Northern District Assistive Device Resource Center since 2017. Due to insufficient space at the original center, the county government undertook an expansion project and held an opening ceremony on the 17th, June at the Hsinchu County Disability Welfare Service Center (Tongxin Building). The event was attended by Deputy Magistrate Jian-Shian Chen of Hsinchu County, Director General Yu-Ting Hsu of the Elderly and Long-Term Care Department, Vice CEO Sheng-Ying Tsou of Eden Foundation, and Director General Sheng-Wen Huang of Eden Hsinchu District, along with distinguished guests from various sectors. The ceremony began with a graceful performance by the Eden Wheelchair Dance Group, Deputy Magistrate Jian-Shian Chen of Hsinchu County then announced the implementation of a rent-free assistive device lending program effective immediately, with the aim of reducing the financial burden on residents and enhancing the accessibility and friendly of the service.
 

Assistive devices are not merely tools; they are vital supports that help people maintain independent living and enhance their ability to participate in society. To uphold the dignity and worth of persons with disabilities, the Hsinchu County North District Assistive Device Resource Center has assembled a multidisciplinary team comprising professional assessors, assistive device technicians, and social workers. This team provides services including consultation, assessment, training, fitting, repair, recycling, and lending programs, guiding those in need to find the support solutions best suited to their individual needs.
 

Vice CEO Sheng-Ying Tsou of Eden Foundation, indicated that the most important aspect of assistive device services is supporting people with diverse needs so they can live comfortably in their communities at every stage of life. As societal structures change and awareness of quality of life increases, the use of assistive devices is no longer limited to persons with disabilities and long-term care service users; an increasing number of people are utilizing them to improve their daily lives and enhance safety and convenience. In the future, Eden will continue to integrate local resources with the expertise of its professional teams to provide people-centered assistive device services, supporting more persons and families in need to create a more inclusive and welcoming living environment.
 

Director General Sheng-Wen Huang of Eden Hsinchu District, also emphasized that the brand-new North District Assistive Device Resource Center not only features spaces for displaying, experiencing, and demonstrating assistive devices in home settings but also includes dedicated assessment areas for hearing and visual aids, allowing the public to receive professional advice tailored to their individual needs. Notably, the second floor features the nation’s first “Environmental Mobility Training Platform.” By simulating real-life scenarios such as ramps, door thresholds, and turns, this platform enables persons with disabilities, seniors, and caregivers to become familiar with the operation and navigation techniques for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and other devices. This enhances their daily safety and confidence in mobility, helping them regain control over their lives.
 

Deputy Magistrate Jian-Shian Chen of Hsinchu County stated that in response to an aging population and the growing demand for assistive devices, the county government allocated funds to expand the North District Assistive Device Resource Center, creating a more comprehensive service space. Following facility renovations and equipment planning, the center has officially relocated back to Tongxin Building, offering more complete and convenient services. There are currently over 25,000 persons with disabilities in Hsinchu County, and as the aging population grows, public demand for assistive device services continues to rise. It is believed that the official opening of the Northern District Assistive Device Resource Center represents not only an upgrade in service facilities but also a significant milestone in the county government’s ongoing efforts to improve welfare for persons with disabilities and strengthen the age-friendly support system.
 

Hsinchu County North District Assistive Device Resource Center is located at No. 220, Zhongshan Road, Zhubei City. Service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. For those who with assistive device needs or related questions are welcome refer to the center’s official website (http://hchg-atrc.com.tw) for more information, or call the Hsinchu County North District Assistive Device Resource Center at +886-3-552-7316 to receive assistance from our professional team.