ConnectAbility of MN has so many services to serve people with long term disabilities and low-income seniors. One of our Divisions is Accessibility. This team receives referrals for home environmental Assessments and Assistive Technology assessments, Home Modification projects, and Assistive Technology Equipment purchases, training, and installation.
Due to the nature of these projects, some are completed quickly, and others can take several months from referral to final walk through. We have a wonderful program that can and often bridges the gap of time for clients with immediate needs. Our Donated Equipment Program, located in our Waite Park and Duluth offices provides free donated durable medical equipment and assistive Technology items. In 2022, we donated $149,000 worth of equipment into our communities in the first six months of 2023, we already surpassed that amount and have donated $159,000 worth of equipment in the communities we serve.
Our Project Coordinators can scan our Donated Equipment Program for any items that would assist the person or family for the short term. An example of this might be that while we are in the process of a bathroom modification to allow for a walk/roll in shower with built in bench or support, we can provide a show chair or bath bench for safety and comfort of the client for free.
Another example would be that we have an Assistive Technology item that is like the requested item, the client can use one from the Donated Equipment Program while waiting for theirs to be approved and purchased.
The equipment inventory and locations vary daily. This Donated Equipment Program is a wonderful resource and option for the clients we are all serving to give them a hand up. We do have the ability to shuttle equipment between the locations for pick up.
To learn more about this program please visit our website at https://connectabilitymn.org/connect-programs/
