What is a GRIT Freedom Chair?
The GRIT Freedom Chair is an all-terrain wheelchair that can be used individually or with the help of a “co-navigator” who can help the user maneuver as necessary. Engineers at MIT built the GRIT Chair to help people with disabilities navigate the outdoors along with their loved ones for regular exercise and adventure.
For tips, tricks, and usage, please see the GRIT Chair Resources.
Our Lending Program
NCLT aims to provide community members with a channel for free and easy use of our two GRIT Chairs.
The GRIT Freedom Chairs are loaned on a first-come, first-served basis. We require booking at least a week in advance. Requests submitted less than one week ahead of time will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
The Loaning Process
Borrowers fill out a booking form at the bottom of this page. The forms include a liability document and a few basic questions about themselves for our documentation and reporting purposes.
We confirm pick-up and drop-off times with borrowers. First-time borrowers and co-navigators must complete a short, 15-minute in-person demonstration if it is their first time using the chair.
Pick Up and Drop Off Information
Borrowers must arrange transportation for pick-up and drop-off of the chair. 
Pick-up and drop-off hours are weekdays, 10 am – 4 pm. Some exclusions may apply. Pick-up and drop-off times must be confirmed in advance by an NCLT staff member.
Pick-up and drop-off at: 325 Lindell Ave, Leominster, MA.
This program was made possible in part by funding from Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund.