Loan locker offers free medical equipment

There’s good news for area residents who need medical equipment free of charge — a new Loan Locker is a local source of durable equipment to meet a growing need for those with temporary or permanent disabilities.

Initiated by local residents, the Loan Locker makes items such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, knee scooters and bed rails available — all for free — to those in need. While the program is coordinated by the Simsbury Aging and Disability Commission, it is open to residents of all area towns. The launch date was Dec. 1.

Medical equipment, which is being collected through donations, is inspected by a licensed physical therapist.

“There is a great need to provide this service locally, as more people than ever are being cared for at home,” says Ed LaMontagne, chair of the Aging and Disability Commission. “This program will provide an opportunity to redistribute durable medical equipment from those who no longer need it to those in need.”

All pick-ups and drop-offs for the medical equipment Loan Locker are by appointment only; the Loan Locker is currently located at the Apple Barn at Simsbury Farms. To make a donation or borrow equipment — or to volunteer with minimal time commitment — email SimsburyLoanLocker@gmail.com or call 860-658-3224.

“This program is a wonderful example of local volunteers coming together to meet a community need,” says First Selectman Eric Wellman. “The Board of Selectmen is grateful to Alan Needham, Jean Miles and the other volunteers who made this initiative happen.”

The program was approved by the Board of Selectmen in April. Cheryl Cook, board member and liaison to the Aging and Disability Commission, says, “This grassroots effort by community members will be a tremendous local asset for those experiencing a disability.”

More info — www.simsbury-ct.gov/loanlocker

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CONTACT INFO AT A GLANCE

Medical Equipment Loan Locker

860-658-3224

email — SimsburyLoanLocker@gmail.com

Apple Barn at Simsbury Farms, 60A Old Farms Road

website — www.simsbury-ct.gov/loanlocker

Source — Town of Simsbury