As caregivers, we often swap and change the equipment we use, to adapt to the changing needs of our aging loved ones. This doesn’t mean though that our old equipment wouldn’t help someone else, and it’s a great opportunity to give it to someone else who could benefit from having it.
You can donate a bedside commode to –
- State Assistive Technology Programs
- State AT Exchanges
- ReUse and Recycling Centers
- Independent Living Centers
- Loan Closets
- Registered charities such as Goodwill Stores and Salvation Army Stores
- Thrift Stores – many are nonprofit
- Veterans Centers
- Senior Centers
- Online at Freecycle.org, Caigslist.com, Facebook.com and usedHME.com
Contents Overview & Quicklinks
Where can you donate medical equipment ?
Organizations working nationally, or internationally
Donating bedside commodes in your state near you
State Assistive Technology Programs
Medical equipment loan closets
Recycling/ Refurbishing / Reuse Programs or Centers
Find organizations to donate your equipment to, near you in your state
Where to donate a bedside commode in your neighborhood ?
Online listing sites where you can donate medical equipment near you
Organizations near you, who may know where you can donate a shower chair
Where can you donate equipment ?
You can donate a bedside commode to a vast array of nonprofit organizations and assistive technology projects across the US.
I have grouped organizations in the following order –
- those which work nationally and internationally
- those who have a system which serves a whole state
Following that, I have listed –
- other localities you can find in your area which may accept, and need, donations of bedside commodes and other durable medical equipment for the elderly and the disabled
- agencies, municipal services and church groups in your area who may have ideas for groups in your area who would doubtless like to receive donations of bedside commodes and other durable medical equipment
Organizations which work nationally or internationally and who accept donations of medical equipment including bedside commodes
These are mainly nonprofit organizations who work in the US, and abroad, helping less served communities at home and around the world.
All the organizations accept donations of durable medical equipment, including bedside commodes.
Some organizations listed, such as Goodwill and Easterseals, have stores and affiliates all over the US.
You can use their store locator on their website to find the nearest location to you to drop off your bedside commode, or any other equipment you may have to donate.
Other of these organizations will organize a pickup with a company they work with, or you may have to pay to send the commode if you can’t get there.
There is a wide range of organizations in all the categories in this area.
The Salvation Army
You can donate medical equipment including bedside commodes to the Salvation Army.
Go to this page on their website to find out how and where the nearest store is, or schedule a pickup ! – https://satruck.org/
There is an option to schedule a free pickup !
The Partnership for Quality Medical Donations
The Partnership for Quality Medical Donations gives equipment to underserved communities.
You can donate a bedside commode.
To donate, go to the website page here – http://www.pqmd.org/pillars/donation-guidelines/
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Advocates for World Health
Advocates for World Health accept and send donated equipment to the developing world.
You can find out about donating here – https://awhealth.org/donate-medical-equipment/
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Easterseals
Easterseals have affiliates all over the US to which you can donate equipment.
To find your local Easterseals affiliate, go to this web page – https://www.easterseals.com/connect-locally/
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Esperenca
Esperenca accepts donations of equipment and medical supplies, and you can find the page for donating here
– https://www.esperanca.org/donate-supplies/
To see their wishlist, visit here – https://www.esperanca.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Medical-Supply-Wishlist.pdf
Esperenca works primarily in parts of Latin America.
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Global Links
Global Links accepts donations of medical equipment from individuals and sends it to under-sourced hospitals in developing countries.
To find out how to make a donation, this is the website page – https://www.globallinks.org/our-work/programs/medical-surplus-recovery-program/individual-and-community-surplus-recovery
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Global Mobility USA
Global Mobility USA is a nonprofit humanitarian organization which accepts donations of wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches, ramps and physical therapy and occupational therapy equipment.
You need to contact them at their website, so here’s the donations page – http://www.globalmobilityusa.org/equipment-and-in-kind-donations
They don’t take bedside commodes, but you may have other mobility equipment to donate one day.
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Goodwill Industries
Goodwill Industries will typically accept donations of bedside commodes, and other stuff used medical equipment too, in their local Goodwill stores all across the country.
You can very easily use their store locator on the following link, to find a store near you – https://www.goodwill.org/locator/
Once you have located a store near you, it’s a good idea to give them a call and check that they do accept bedside commodes, or any other kind of medical equipment you wish to donate.
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HERO Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization
Hero refurbishes and redistributes medical equipment, which is sold for low prices at their retail store and also distributed around the world with medical mission teams.
Donations need to be dropped off at their store, which makes this one a little difficult if you aren’t local to Fargo, North Dakota.
This is the donation page for individuals on their website – https://www.herofargo.org/wp-content/uploads/IndividualSupplies.pdf
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Med Share
MedShare delivers surplus medical equipment to communities in need around the world.
You can donate durable medical equipment at the three MedShare distribution centers.
Check this on the MedShare website – https://www.medshare.org/
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MedWish
MedWish repurposes both medical supplies and equipment for people in need.
MedWish accepts donations of medical equipment from individuals at their MedWish warehouse in Cleveland, Ohio.
The website page for donations is here – https://www.medwish.org/give/
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Medical Bridges
Medical Bridges send donated medical equipment to underserved communities around the globe.
The organization accepts all kinds of durable medical equipment, including bedside commodes.
To donate, you need to visit this page on their website – http://www.medicalbridges.org/donate/medical-supplies-and-equipment
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Project Cure
Project CURE distributes donated medical equipment to the developing world.
Bedside commodes are accepted, along with other DME.
To donate, the website page is here – https://projectcure.org/donate-supplies-equipment
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REMEDY – Recovered Medical Equipment for the developing World
REMEDY furnishes medical supplies and equipment to global aid, to help to those in need.
They accept donations of durable medical equipment from individuals.
Go to this webpage to donate equipment to REMEDY – https://www.med-eq.org/Login/form.aspx?type=donate&quick=1
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Salvation Army
You can donate medical equipment including bedside commodes to the Salvation Army.
Go to this page on their website to find out how and where the nearest store is, or schedule a pickup ! – https://satruck.org/
There is an option to schedule a free pickup !
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The Partnership for Quality Medical Donations
The Partnership for Quality Medical Donations gives equipment to underserved communities.
You can donate a bedside commode.
To donate, go to the website page here – http://www.pqmd.org/pillars/donation-guidelines/
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Donating used medical equipment in your state near you
The following are types of organizations which operate throughout your state or even more locally, to which you will be able to donate medical equipment, including shower chairs
Assistive Technology Programs
Assistive Technology Programs are found in most states and work to increase access to AT devices and medical equipment to people with disabilities and the elderly, who can’t afford to pay high prices, or even to pay at all – AT programs will happily accept donations of “gently used” medical equipment.
Each state AT program will have a main website where they can be contacted, and you will be told how and where you can donate your bedside commode, or other used medical equipment – just click on your state in the list below, and you will find a link to your AT program website.
AT Program Online Equipment Exchanges
AT programs will typically have an online equipment exchange, and this is your best bet for donating equipment without having to go far from home.
The Online Equipment Exchanges are like Craigslist.
You simply register with the exchange site in your state, and you can post a photo of the equipment you wish to donate, or sell, on the site.
If another site user wants your equipment, they will contact you through the site, and you can arrange for them to pick up your donated piece of equipment from anywhere you choose – so at home or close by.
For safety, most people don’t do it from their home, but that is up to you.
Go to the list of states below and click on your state to find the link to your online equipment exchange site.
Medical equipment loan closets
Another place that you may wish to donate used medical equipment to is a loan closet, or lending library.
Loan closets will loan equipment out for short term, long term and indefinite term loans, to individuals who are in need, and who lack the financial resources necessary to pay for it.
AT programs may also be partnered with loan closets, so that individuals may test particular pieces of equipment before they go on to either be gifted the equipment or to purchase it at a reduced cost.
Reuse and refurbishment centers
In most states you will find nonprofit organizations which work in the community, reusing, recycling and refurbishing used medical equipment, and then distributing it to those in need – either for free or for at a greatly reduced cost.
AT programs very often are partnered with such nonprofit organizations to maximize their outreach and efficiency, as these groups are well embedded in local communities, and they will know who will take what equipment etc.
Nonprofit organizations which work with the AT programs, and run re-use or refurbishment centers, will also accept donations of used medical equipment at their locales, and then very often use the main AT program website and online equipment exchange to get them to the individuals who need them.
Many re-use and refurbishment centers work independently of the state, serving their local community, and will also typically be very happy to accept “gently used” medical equipment.
Go to the list of states below and click on your state to see if there are any centers you can donate to.
Find organizations to donate equipment to, near you in your state
Click on your state in the lists below to find your –
- AT Program and their website
- state AT Program Online Equipment Exchange site
- recycling centers
- reuse and refurbishing centers
- loan closets
All accept donations of used medical equipment.
I have also made it clear if a particular reuse, refurbishment, recycling center or loan closet works in tandem with the state AT Project, or not.
Alabama
Alabama Assistive Technology Resource (STAR)
The State Assistive Technology Program.
STAR supports five equipment re-utilization centers which recycle AT devices and DME, including bedside commodes, for disabled members of the community.
To find the centers listed with all the contact details, go to this web page – http://www.rehab.alabama.gov/individuals-and-families/star/assistive-technology-centers
There is an online AT Exchange in Alabama which you can access here – http://al.at4all.com
where you can exchange, buy, sell, donate etc, directly to those who need the equipment.
Alaska
Assistive Technology of Alaska (ATLA)
The State Assistive Technology Program.
ATLA maintains the Alaska Assistive Technology Trading Post or AK Trading Post an equipment exchange and reuse program with loans, giveaways and sales. You can call about the equipment exchange and donating on 907 563-2599
The website is here – https://www.atlaak.org/
Alaska Center for Children and Adults (ACCA)
ACCA is a nonprofit organization which helps individuals with disabilities.
ACCA runs a loan closet which has “adaptive mobility equipment”.
ACCA does not take bedside commodes, but again you may have other equipment that you would one day like to donate.
For information, call – 456-4003.
The loan closet website page is here – http://alaskacenter.org/loan-closet/
Access Alaska – Loan Closet
Access Alaska is a private nonprofit organization which provides help to people in the community with disabilities.
You can donate bedside commodes and other equipment to the Access Alaska Loan Closet here – https://www.accessalaska.org/dme-loan-closet
Arizona
Arizona Technology Access Program (AzTAP)
The State Assistive Technology Program.
AzTAP runs three programs which give access to recycled AT equipment –
The Arizona Assistive Technology Exchange (ATEX)
You can buy, sell, donate and exchange equipment using an online exchange.
This is the website page for the exchange – https://www.azatexchange.org/home.php
AT & Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Reuse Coalition
AzTAP coordinates this site, which provides a listing of Arizona programs involved in activities of equipment reuse, including medical equipment loan closets.
They accept bedside commodes.
The website page is – https://www.azatreuse.org/
Fill a quick form to help you locate a participating reuse program, where you’ll be able to donate your equipment.
Open-Ended, Long Term Device Loans
AzTAP offers some of its older equipment which is still in good condition for free, for open-ended long term loans.
The website page is here – https://aztap.org/at-reuse/open-ended-device-loans/
Arkansas
Increasing Capabilities Access Network (iCAN)
The State Assistive Technology Program.
iCAN has a Device Recycling Program to refurbish a wide range of equipment for donation.
Equipment Exchange is an online ad listings of used equipment for sale, donation, or exchange, available to residents throughout the state.
To find out more, you can visit the website here – https://ar-ican.org/about-ican/
or, here – https://equipment.ar-ican.org/
California
Ability Tools
The State Assistive Technology Program.
Ability Tools runs an Assistive Technology Exchange for donating and receiving medical equipment and AT devices.
Here’s the website page – http://abilitytools.org/services/at-exchange-transition.php
Ability Tools partners with reuse programs and posts their available inventory on the AT Exchange.
Here is the website page with the info on the reuse centers here – http://abilitytools.org/services/reuse-programs.php
There are centers across California, so you can call and donate equipment there if you don’t wish to get involved in the online exchange.
Colorado
The Assistive Technology Program of Colorado
The State Assistive Technology Program
The web page is here – https://www.ucdenver.edu/centers/center-for-inclusive-design-and-engineering/community-engagement/colorado-assistive-technology-act-program
To find out about donating equipment, call – 303 315 1280
For those looking for equipment, the program runs a reuse website called ATFinder.org, but it is currently under reorganization, so it is not accessible at the time of writing.
The AT Finder service is mentioned here – https://www.ucdenver.edu/centers/center-for-inclusive-design-and-engineering/community-engagement/colorado-assistive-technology-act-program/tech-act-services-during-covid-19
Connecticut
Connecticut Tech Act Project
This is the state Assistive Technology Program.
CCTAP offers refurbished equipment through their community partner agencies –
1) New England Assistive Technology (NEAT) Center at Oakhill.
If you wish to donate equipment, visit this website page to find out all about it – https://assistivetechnology.oakhillct.org/equipment-to-donate/
The equipment they accept changes, so at my time of writing they do not take raised toilet seats, but when you check they may do.
2) Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging also accepts donations for the western region of Connecticut – call 203-757-5449.
Website – https://wcaaa.org/programs/assistive-technology-center
3) Eastern CT Assistive Technology Center also accepts donations of lightly used equipment – call 860 423 4534
Website – https://wrccct.org/eastern-ct-assistive-technology-center/
4) Access Independence – also has an assistive technology program which you can contact – 203 378 6977
Delaware
Delaware Assistive Technologies Initiative (DATI)
The State Assistive Technology Program.
DATI has an Assistive Technologies Exchange on which you can donate equipment, and that you can get equipment from, if you are a resident of Delaware.
Here’s the web address for the AT Exchange – http://www.dati.org/v3/home.php
Florida
The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technologies (FAST)
The State Assistive Technology Program.
The FAST website address is – https://faast.org/
The Florida AT Exchange website page – https://faast.org/listings/,
This is where Florida residents can post medical equipment they wish to donate, or also where they may ask for something that they need.
You can donate all sorts of AT devices and medical equipment.
Georgia
Tools for life
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The lending libraries accept donations of durable medical equipment.
The website has huge resources, but is a nightmare to navigate, so here are the contacts for their loan closet network.
Tools for Life runs lending libraries within their Assistive Technologies Resource Centers –
1) Disability Connections
Phone – 478 741 1425
Website – https://www.disabilityconnections.com/
2) Tools for Life AT Solutions Lab @ Georgia Tech
Phone – 404 894 0541
Website – https://gatfl.gatech.edu/tfl.php
3) Walton Options for Independent Living
Phone – 706 724 6262
Website – https://www.waltonoptions.org/
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Friends of disabled adults and children (FODAC)
As well as being an agency for outreach for Tools for Life, FODAC is a non-profit organization providing low cost, or free, gently used durable medical equipment to those in need.
You can donate raised toilet seats and other durable medical equipment which their teams will refurbish, and get it out to people who need it.
You can find their donation page on their website – https://www.fodac.org/dropoff
Hawaii
Assistive Technology Resource Centers of Hawaii
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
There is an Assistive Technology Exchange which is online, and you just contact them if you wish to participate, by donating used equipment for others.
The website page for the exchange is – https://www.atrc.org/assistive-technology-exchange
Idaho
The Idaho Assistive Technology Project (IATP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The website – https://idahoat.org/
The program has lending libraries to which you can donate, and an online AT Exchange, on which is for –
- equipment redistribution
- equipment loans
- lending library items
- selling, donating, no longer needed items
The lending of equipment is dealt with through the exchange, as well as individuals selling and donating.
Idaho AT4All Equipment Exchange
Idaho has an online Assistive Technology Exchange, which you can use if you live in Idaho.
Once you have joined, just put up a post on the exchange with the bedside commode you wish to donate.
The equipment exchange page on their website is here – https://www.idaho.at4all.com/welcome.aspx
Illinois
Illinois Assistive Technology Program (iATP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The IATP has a device recycling service, which distributes the items to those in need.
The main website address in here – https://iltech.org/
The website page on donating equipment is here –
You can donate items, directly to the Reuse program by dropping them off –
but you need to call in advance – 217 522 7985
The website page on donating equipment is here – https://iltech.org/how-we-help/device-recycling/
Or you can use the Assistive Technology Exchange webpage, where you can list your item that you wish to donate and deal directly person-to-person on the exchange, with someone who needs that item.
You can buy, sell or donate on the Exchange.
The webpage is here – https://exchange.iltech.org/Home.aspx
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Great Lakes Loan Closets
The Great Lakes Loan Closets for the residents of Michigan, Wisconsin, Northern Indiana and Northern Illinois.
The loan closets have durable medical equipment – but each one may have its own eligibility requirements and loan period.
There is a link on the home page of the website to donate equipment – https://loanclosets.org
Indiana
Easterseals Crossroads INDATA Project
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The INDATA Project is run by the Easterseals Crossroads for the State of Indiana.
The website is page for donating items – device re-utilization – is here – https://www.eastersealstech.com/our-services/device-re-utilization/
To donate an item, you drop it off by appointment, or arrange a pickup, call 317 466 2013
There is a vast array of items that you can donate, anything from visual aids to hospital beds can be found in the device loan library.
To borrow devices, there is an online device loan library which users from Indiana can join, and then use, to borrow equipment – there is a video also, which explains how to join, and how to use the library.
The website page for the device loan library, along with the video, is here – https://www.eastersealstech.com/device_loan_library/
Great Lakes Loan Closets
The Great Lakes Loan Closets for the residents of Michigan, Wisconsin, Northern Indiana and Northern Illinois.
The loan closets have durable medical equipment – but each one may have its own eligibility requirements and loan period.
There is a link on the home page of the website to donate equipment – https://loanclosets.org
Iowa
Easter Seals Equipment Loan
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
Donations of durable medical equipment are accepted, including bedside commodes – you can give them a call.
“The Assistive Technology Center is located at Easter Seals Iowa Camp Sunnyside, 401 NE 66th Ave. in Des Moines, Iowa 50313. To make an appointment to pick-up, or donate medical equipment, tour the Demonstration Center, or to visit the Lending Library, please call 1-866-866-8782 or 515-289-4069 (TTY) or email atinfo@eastersealsia.org.”
Source: their website.
You can use the link below to fill out their form to donate equipment – Donate equipment to Easterseals Iowa
The website is here- https://www.easterseals.com/ia/our-programs/assistive-technology-center/
Kansas
Assistive Technology Kansas – Kansas Equipment Exchange
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
This is an AT exchange program, and it is divided into 6 regions. You can donate all kinds of equipment.
To donate equipment the website instructs you to either call 800-526-3648 or to email your AT Access Site – you can visit this web address – http://atk.ku.edu/contact-atk, find which region you are in and then send an email, or telephone, the AT access location which serves you – all the contact info is on the page I listed above.
Kentucky
The Kentucky Assistive Technology Service (KATS) Network
You can donate all kinds of equipment and devices to KATS.
You can read about all their services here – https://www.katsnet.org/services/
There is a re-utilization program which collects and refurbishes durable medical equipment and AT devices to give to people with disabilities for free. The program for organizing this is CARAT – Coordinating and Assisting with the Reuse of Assistive Technology
CARAT can be found on the KATS Network website here – https://www.katsnet.org/services/at-reuse/
You will see a button for donating on the above page, and you can find out about where you can drop off equipment, if you don’t want to use their online exchange.
KY Assistive Technology Locator
KATS has an online exchange for equipment and devices – the KY Assistive Technology Locator
You can find it here – https://katsnet.at4all.com/
This has several functions –
- there is an exchange where you can donate or sell durable medical equipment and AT devices
- there is the CARAT inventory
- the KY Assistive Technology locator also has a lending library program of short term loans of equipment to try it before you buy it
Louisiana
Louisiana Assistive Technology Access Network (LATAN)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
Latan runs the AT Marketplace Louisiana’s Assistive Technology Classifieds.
The AT Marketplace has a large range of types of durable medical equipment, including bedside commodes.
You can donate assistive technology devices directly to LATAN to be posted on the AT Marketplace, or you can list the devices on the AT exchange yourself.
AT Marketplace web page is here – https://www.latan.org/at-marketplace/
Maine
Main Cite
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The Main Cite website page for Equipment Reuse and donating equipment is here –
https://mainecite.org/equipment-reuse/
You can donate a huge range of equipment.
Main Cite works with a number of partners to loan devices, and you can see them all here on the website page “Devices For Loan”, here – https://mainecite.org/devices-for-loan/
As you will see, each company posts devices which are available for loan in Maine on the – https://at4maine.org/
Maryland
Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MD TAP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The website for MD TAP is – http://mdod.maryland.gov/mdtap/Pages/MDTAP-Home.aspx
MD TAP has a directory of loan closets.
Call the one closest to you and find out about donating equipment.
This is the web address for the loan closet directory here to download it- http://mdod.maryland.gov/mdtap/Pages/Equipment-Loan-Closet-Directory-.aspx
Facebook group
To donate equipment, you can join and offer the equipment to other members of the group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/443254832860014/
Massachusetts
MassMATCH – Massachusetts Maximizing Assistive Technology in Consumers Hands
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
Requipment is a durable medical equipment re-use program, to which you can donate bedside commodes, other durable medical equipment and AT devices.
They have a substantial inventory, and list instructions on how to donate equipment to them – – https://dmerequipment.org/
There is a list of local community groups that you can donate to in Massachusetts, you will find it on this page of the MassMatch website – https://www.massmatch.org/find_at/borrow.php#Device_Loan_and_Reuse_Programs
MassMatch also has an online equipment exchange listing where you can post equipment for donation, and you can find that here – https://getatstuff.massmatch.org/
Michigan
The State Assistive Technology Program.
MTAP is incredibly lucky to have the Great Lakes Loan Closets in Michigan, and it advises individuals to get all their short term loans of medical equipment there.
Website – https://mdrc.host5.nicholascreative.com/assistive-tech-program/
Michigan has an AT Exchange – ATXChange – here – https://atxchange.org
Great Lakes Loan Closets
The Great Lakes Loan Closets are for the residents of Michigan, Wisconsin, Northern Indiana and Northern Illinois.
The loan closets have durable medical equipment – but each one may have its own eligibility requirements and loan period.
There is a link on the home page of the website to donate equipment – https://loanclosets.org
Minnesota
Minnesota STAR Program
The State Assistive Technology Program.
The website page for STAR is here – https://mn.gov/admin/star/
Minnesota Star has a new online device library – MN.AT4all.com
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Goodwill-Easter Seals
Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota accepts donations of many kinds of equipment.
The website home page is – https://www.goodwilleasterseals.org
You can locate a donation site with this page of their website – https://www.goodwilleasterseals.org/donate/find-donation
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HERO: Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization
HERO does accept donations of bedside commodes, amongst other durable medical equipment items.
HERO collects and distributes healthcare supplies to those in need locally and globally.
The donations page on their website is here – https://www.herofargo.org/donate
There is a PDF about what equipment they do, and they don’t accept and where to bring the equipment – https://www.herofargo.org/wp-content/uploads/IndividualSupplies.pdf
Mississippi
Project START (Success through Assistive Rehabilitation Technology)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
You can find the website here – http://www.msprojectstart.org/
You can donate lightly used durable medical equipment to START through their Device Reutilization Program – you have to contact them to find out more and their contact page is here – http://www.msprojectstart.org/contact-us
There are three main branches to the program for assistive technology and durable medical equipment –
The Mississippi Equipment Connection Program – an online recycling database – I couldn’t find it on the website, or anywhere else for that matter, but if you use their contact page you can ask them.
There is a short term loan testing library, but they don’t say if this is part of the online database or not, but it is there, so you can test before you buy low cost recycled equipment. The address for this is – https://www.myatprogram.org/SearchInventory.aspx
Device Reutilization and Computer Refurbishment Program – in-home placements of refurbished computers for people with disabilities.
You need to contact them through this page on their website — http://www.msprojectstart.org/contact-us
Mississippi Re-Tech Project – this program works to educate and increase access to assistive technology in poorer areas of Mississippi.
The program partners with churches, local health departments and durable medical equipment companies.
The goal is to increase access to equipment.
Missouri
MoAT Missouri Assistive Technology Program
The State Assistive Technology Program.
This is an Assistive Technology Program which accepts donations of equipment.
This is the homepage of the website – https://at.mo.gov
The main points are –
1) Individuals and agencies can borrow equipment through the ETC Program, Equipment Technology Consortium – https://at.mo.gov/device-loan/
This is the website page about recycled equipment – https://at.mo.gov/recycle-reuse
2) MoAT works with 9 Missouri “Recycling Locations” to provide the equipment for their programs, and they also invite donations directly to their centers –
a) Accessibility Medical
Recycled Durable Medical Equipment Program – Assistive Technology Center
311 Delaware St. # 102 A
Kansas City, MO 64105
Phone – 816 822 7432
Website: https://www.accessibilitymedical.org/
b) Paraquad
Paraquad Assistive Technology Reutilization Program
5240 Oakland Ave
Saint Louis, MO 63110
Phone – 314 289 4338
Website: https://www.paquad.com/
c) Living Independently for Everyone (LIFE)
LIFE AT Reutilization Program
725 E. Karsch Blvd.
Farmington, MO 63640
Phone – 573 756-4314
Website: https://www.lifecilmo.org/
d) Rural Advocates for Independent Living (RAIL)
1100 S. Jamison
Kirksville, MO 63501
Phone – 800 681 7245
Website: http://www.railkv.org/
e) Services for Independent Living (SIL)
SIL Assistive Technology Reutilization Program
1401 Hathman Place
Columbia, MO 65201
Phone – 573 874 1646
Website: https://www.silcolumbia.org/get-help
f) SEMO Alliance for Disability Independence (SADI)
SADI Assistive Technology Reutilization Program
1913 Rusmar Avenue
Cape Girardeau, MO 63703
Phone – 573 651 6464
Website: https://sadi.org/programs/assistive-technology-programs/
g) empower:abilities
empower:abilities Assistive Technology Reutilization Program
2864 S. Nettleton
Springfield, MO 65807
Phone – 417 886 1188
Website: https://empowerabilities.org/actt-assistive-tech/
h) The Independent Living Center
The Independent Living Assistive Technology Reutilization Program
2639 E. 34th Street
Joplin, MO 64804
Phone – 417 659 8086
Website: https://ilcenter.org/aboveandbeyond
i) On My Own
428 E Highland Ave,
Nevada, MO 64772
Phone – 417 667 7007
Website: https://omoinc.org/
j) NEILS (Northeast Independent Living)
4500 Paris Gravel Rd.
Hannibal, MO 63401
Phone – 573 221 8282
Website: https://www.neils.org/
3) The program has an equipment exchange called the “Swap ‘n Shop” Exchange Program.
The website page if you wish to learn about, and use their “Swap ‘n Shop” Exchange Program – https://at.mo.gov/recycle-reuse/swap-n-shop-disclaimer.html
If you wish to list equipment, you can call (816) 655-6700 or email at info@mo-at.org
It is full of equipment, with lots of good photos of the equipment.
There are 11 categories of equipment, and it is really clearly laid out.
To offer your donation here, you need to send three photos by email – info@mo-at.0rg
Montana
MonTech
The State Assistive Technology Program.
Community Buy-Sell – ” Sell, give away, exchange, or list a need for Assistive Technology or Adaptive Equipment free of charge”
Do it all here – https://montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/community-buy-sell/
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Easterseals-Goodwill Northern Rocky Mountain
Easterseals-Goodwill Northern Rocky Mountain non-profit organization accepts donations of a vast array of different kinds of equipment.
Bedside commodes are accepted if they are gently used.
Their website home page is – https://www.esgw.org
You can locate a donation point here – https://www.esgw.org/locations-hours
Nebraska
Nebraska Assistive Technology Partnership (ATP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The ATP website is here – https://atp.nebraska.gov/
The ATP run an online assistive technology exchange and classifieds – it is low cost or free.
The online exchange can be found here – https://atp.nebraska.gov/services/equipment and then clicking on the link which says at4all.com. There are listings for –
- Demonstration and short-term loans
- Used equipment for sale
- Free donated items
- List items to sell or donate
ATP has a ReUse Network, and you can contact them to donate equipment – you can find that here – https://atp.nebraska.gov/services/reuse-network
There is a list of partners in their ReUse Network program organized by area.
Nevada
Nevada Assistive Technology Collaborative (NATC)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
NATC maintains an equipment-recycling program called CARE Chest which refurbishes donated equipment.
Here’s the CARE Chest website – https://carechest.org/site/
For donations, use this link – https://carechest.org/site/donate-2/supply-donations/
NATC also offers an online equipment exchange – which you can find here – https://www.nateproject.com/welcome.aspx
New Hampshire
ATinNH
The State Assistive Technology Program.
The website is here – https://iod.unh.edu/areas-emphasis/assistive-technology
ATinNH has an online equipment library at – https://atinnh.at4all.com
The library has equipment for loan, demonstration and reuse.
The equipment reuse program works with four programs to help people get refurbished equipment at very low prices. The program below is one of those programs, and you can find the others here – https://iod.unh.edu/assistive-technology-new-hampshire-atinnh/services
Refurbished Equipment Marketplace
The REM, a non-profit organization, works with AT4NH (New Hampshire Assistive Technologies Program) with grants to refurbish donated durable medical equipment, which is then sold at low prices to people who need it, but can’t afford expensive equipment.
According to their donations page, they do not accept bedside commodes, but they accept a lot of other types of equipment that you may have.
The donation page on their website is – http://rem.crotchedmountain.org/Donation-Policy_ep_42.html
New Jersey
Richard West Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
Website: http://www.drnj.org/atac/
The ATAC operates the Back-in-Action Equipment Exchange Program, which matches people with equipment for sale or donation, with those in need.
You can post a range of equipment including durable medical equipment, so bedside commodes as well.
Register with the site, and then you can post your equipment.
The website for the exchange is here – http://backinaction.drnj.org/home.php
ATAC operates recycling of donated equipment through Goodwill Home Medical Equipment – a nonprofit in Ewing, New Jersey.
If you want to find out more about this, go here – https://goodwillnj.org/material-donations/
To find the donation center nearest to you, go here – https://goodwillnj.org/goodwill-donation-site/
New Mexico
New Mexico Technology Assistance Program (NMTAP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
Medical equipment, including bedside commodes, can be donated to the reuse program Back in Use, which is run for NMTAP by the nonprofit organization, Adelante Development Center.
Go to the following web address to donate equipment – https://goadelante.org/disability-services/assistive-equipment-biu/backinuse-donate-equipment/
New York
The New York State Assistive Technology (TRAID) Program.
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
TRAID-IN is an exchange service in New York State, connecting people who need equipment with those who want to donate or sell.
You can donate durable medical equipment, including bedside commodes.
Their website is – https://www.justicecenter.ny.gov/traid-program
North Carolina
North Carolina Assistive technology Program (NCATP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
NCATP runs device loans through 9 centers across North Carolina.
To donate, you contact the center nearest to you.
The contact info and addresses of the 9 centers is here – https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/vocational-rehabilitation-services/north-carolina-assistive-technology-program/ncatp
North Dakota
North Dakota Assistive
The State Assistive Technology Program.
To quote the site here – https://ndassistive.org/equipment-reuse-program/
“North Dakota Assistive provides an online database called ND AT4ALL where anyone can list assistive technology equipment for sale, rent, trade, or donation.”
You can also create want ads for items you are looking for.
You can read about it at the link above, and you can visit the ND AT4 ALL here – https://nd.at4all.com
North Dakota Assistive also uses NDAT4ALL to list all of its equipment available for long term and short term loans.
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HERO: Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization
HERO does accept donations of bedside commodes and a lot of other equipment as well.
HERO collects and distributes healthcare supplies to those in need locally and globally.
Their donations page is here – https://www.herofargo.org/donate
HERO has a PDF about items which they do and don’t accept, and where to donate the equipment – https://www.herofargo.org/wp-content/uploads/IndividualSupplies.pdf
Ohio
AT Ohio – Assistive Technology of Ohio
The State Assistive Technology Program
The device re-utilization page of their website is here – https://atohio.org/additional-programs/device-refurbishing-and-reutilization-program
AT Ohio offers an equipment re-utilization program through their partnership with the YMCA of Central Ohio / ECRN+.
Donations of equipment are accepted and redistributed for free to those with disabilities.
You can contact them by calling – 614 389 3880
Or you can email them by using the email form on this page of their website – https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/ecrn/email
Oklahoma
Oklahoma ABLE Tech
The State Assistive Technology Program.
The website home page – https://www.okabletech.org
Online Equipment Exchange
The program refurbishes gently used equipment and maintains a device equipment exchange, to which you can sign up and then offer your equipment.
The Equipment Exchange information is here – https://www.okabletech.org/guide-to-all-services/device-reutilization/oklahoma-equipment-exchange
Donating to the centers
You can donate equipment to the centers, but you will have to submit an online donation form here – https://www.okabletech.org/guide-to-all-services/device-reutilization/apply-for-dme/donate
At the link above, there are eight Drop-off Locations listed where equipment can be taken.
Able Tech does do some pick-ups for equipment as well.
Oregon
Oregon Statewide Assistive Technology Program
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
OSAT refurbishes medical equipment and AT devices and sells them as recycled equipment.
There is an online exchange program in Oregon as well, where you can post your bedside commode donation.
For more information, go to this website – https://www.accesstechnologiesinc.org/about/oregon-statewide-at-program
Pennsylvania
TechOWL PA – Tech for Our Whole Lives
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The program is a part of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University.
The TechOWL website can be found here – https://techowlpa.org/
The TechOWL lending library for statewide device loans is here – https://myatprogram.org/home/42
One particular program, run by TechOWL, called REEP (Reused and Exchanged Equipment Partnership) collects, refurbishes and redistributes equipment across Pennsylvania.
You can find out about donating to the REEP program here – https://techowlpa.org/reep/
TechOWL helps to then redistribute the equipment to those who need it in Pennsylvania.
There are a number of Assistive Technology Resource Centers where equipment can be dropped off –
Community Living and Support Services – Good Use Program – https://www.classcommunity.org/services/adult/good-use-program/
Transitional Paths to Independent Living – EquipAbility –https://www.classcommunity.org/services/adult/good-use-program/
Changing Hands – https://www.ucpcentralpa.org/services/assistive-technology/changing-hands/
You can also donate equipment to TechOWL’s Partner Programs –
Reuse It – https://scalucp.org/services-available/reuse-it/
Disability Options Network – https://scalucp.org/services-available/reuse-it/
Life and Independence for Today – http://www.liftcil.org/programs/reuse.html
UMPC Life Changing Medicine – https://www.upmc.com/locations/hospitals/horizon/about/giving/equipment-recycling
Abilities in Motion – https://www.abilitiesinmotion.org/leap
United Cerebral Palsy of Central Pennsylvania
The program is supported by TechOwl, which is the Commonwealths Assistive Technology Act Program.
The UCP website is found at this address – https://www.ucpcentralpa.org
Changing Hands –
(run by UCP of Central Pennsylvania and supported by TechOWL)
Changing Hands is an equipment exchange program which supplies refurbished home medical equipment and AT devices to residents of Pennsylvania on a first come, first served basis.
Residents of Pennsylvania of all ages who have a need for equipment, but who do not have the means to get it, are eligible to participate in the Changing Hands equipment exchange program.
Many types of equipment are accepted, and the page for donations is here – https://www.ucpcentralpa.org/services/assistive-technology/changing-hands
You need to fill out an online form to donate, or call them – all info is on the above link.
Rhode Island
Assistive Technology Access Partnership (ATAP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
ATAP contracts with Ocean State Center for Independent Living (OSCIL) to provide a device exchange program to which you can donate devices.
OSCIL has an inventory of equipment for short, or long term loan.
The OSCIL website is here – http://www.oscil.org/assistive-technology.html
To donate, you will need to call or email them.
South Carolina
South Carolina Assistive Technology Program (SCATP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The SCATP runs the South Carolina Assistive Technology Exchange. The exchange is a free online exchange where anyone can post equipment for free, or for sale.
The SC AT Exchange website page address – https://scatpexchange.net
For those who don’t want to use the online exchange, there is SC Assistive Technology Reuse, which collects “gently used” medical equipment, and distributes it to those in need.
You can find a PDF about that service here.
If you want to donate your equipment to SC Assistive Technology Reuse, you can call SC Assistive Technology Reuse on 803-935-5273.
You can donate bedside commodes and other durable medical equipment to both the exchange, and to the Reuse program.
South Dakota
DakotaLink
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
DakotaLink has an AT Exchange site where you can donate medical equipment and assistive devices.
You can access it from here – https://www.dakotalink.net/at-activities/recycling-reuse/ or here – https://www.sd.at4all.com/welcome.asp
South Dakota Medicaid Reuse Program
“DakotaLink” has a program for the reuse of durable medical equipment and other Assistive Technology Devices purchased for individuals eligible for Medicaid.
The goal of the program “Medicaid funding is to be used in a more efficient manner by recycling and reusing equipment no longer needed by the initial recipient.”
There is a pilot program site which has been established in Sioux Falls, SD.
For more information, contact Merrinfo@dakotalink.net, or call 605-271-5074 or 866-274-2594.”
You can access the pilot site brochure here – https://www.dakotalink.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/MERR-Brochure-20181004-1.pdf
You need to contact them by email, or call, to find out about donations.
Tennessee
Tennessee Technology Access Program
This is a State Assistive Technology Program.
TTAP is administered by the Tennessee Department of Human Services.
Webpage – https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/ds/ttap.html
The above page is not very useful to find out about donating equipment.
You need to look up the regional Assistive Technology Centers.
The following is all conducted through regional Assistive Technology Centers –
- Device Demonstration
- Device Loans
- Device Re-utilization
The Centers are –
1) Mid-South Access Center for Technology – Memphis
Website: http://act.memphis.edu
2) The STAR Center – Jackson
Website: http://www.star-center.org
3) Signal Centers Assistive Technology Center – Chattanooga
Website: http://www.signalcenters.org/assistive-technology-services
4) SPARK – (Formerly East Tennessee Technology Access Center) – Knoxville
Website: https://www.sparktn.org/
5) United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee (UCP) – Device Reutilization Only – Nashville
This site is for device/equipment re-utilzation only and an Equipment Exchange.
Website: http://ucpmidtn.org/programs-and-services/equipment-exchange/
You can find the website page with the Centers here – https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/ds/office-locator-trc-ttap.html
The centers are on the second half of the page, and you will find their service areas, so you will know which one is yours to donate equipment to.
You will need to contact the center.
Texas
Texas Technology Access Program (TTAP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
TTAP is partnered with Project Mend in San Antonio.
Project Mend accepts donations of bedside commodes, other types of medical equipment and AT devices.
Project Mend provides long term loans of refurbished medical equipment to persons with disabilities.
The Project Mend website donations page is here – https://www.projectmend.org/donate/
To schedule a pickup, or a drop-off, for equipment at their warehouse, you will need to call them.
Utah
Utah Assistive Technology Program (UATP)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
You can donate equipment through the statewide device exchange to this assistive technology program.
This is the website – http://www.uatpat.org/classifieds/
To donate a device to the organization at their different sites, you need to contact them.
You can get the contacts here – http://www.uatpat.org/device_reuse/
For Salt Lake City, you can get donation info here – http://www.uatpat.org/uatp-slc/
Vermont
Vermont Assistive Technology Program
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
Vermont also has an Assistive Technology Equipment Exchange – an online equipment exchange.
You can donate all kinds of medical equipment on the exchange.
The website address for the Vermont AT Exchange is – https://vt.at4all.com
Here is the Vermont Assistive Technology Program Information sheet –
https://atp.vermont.gov/sites/atp/files/documents/VATP%20One%20Pager%202018.pdf
Virginia
Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The VATS has a number of programs to ensure that the elderly and the disabled have access to assistive technology devices and durable medical equipment, to which you can donate any durable medical equipment.
The Virginia Reuse Network (VRN) Equipment Exchange is an AT Equipment Exchange.
To offer equipment on the VRN Equipment Exchange, you need to visit this page here – http://www.vats.org/apps/inquiries/Default.aspx
Virginia Reuse Network(VRN)
VRN also works with durable medical equipment reuse sites across the state.
The sites can be found here –http://www.vats.org/ATrecycling.htm
Foundation for Rehabilitation Equipment Endowment (F.R.E.E.)
The F.R.E.E. Foundation also works with the VRN and has a number of the reuse sites which reuse durable medical equipment and AT devices.
To donate equipment to F.R.E.E.
The information on how to do so is found here on their website –http://www.free-foundation.org/donate-equipment
The Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center (WWRC)
The WWRC also works with the VRN and has a site where equipment is recycled.
You can donate medical equipment here, also.
The website address is – https://www.wwrc.net/
Washington
Washington Assistive Technology Act Program
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
All kinds of equipment are accepted, including bedside commodes.
WATAP works with community reuse providers to expand its programs. You can donate all kinds of durable medical equipment and AT devices.
WATAP has online equipment exchange of classified Ads.
The online exchange can be found here – https://www.myatprogram.org/Default.aspx?state=53
To donate your equipment without using the exchange, go to the list of centers on this page, and contact them – http://watap.org/device-reuse
West Virginia
The WVATS Loan and Exchange System
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
West Virginia Assistive Technology System runs an equipment reuse program which takes donated devices.
The Virtual Loan Library and Exchange is an online exchange system where you can also donate equipment.
The website page is – https://vll.cedwvu.org/welcome.aspx
To donate to the program and not the exchange
To donate equipment directly to the program, you can contact them here – http://wvats.cedwvu.org/contact-us/
WSVATS also contracts with two existing re-utilization programs –
Ark of Mid-Ohio Valley have thrift shops where you can donate equipment – http://thearcmov.org/wp/thrift-shops/
North West Virginia Center for Independent Living which offers support and distributes equipment.
Wisconsin
WisTech
The State Assistive Technology Program.
WisTech (Wisconsin’s Assistive Technology Program) supports two statewide device re-utilization programs
The web page is here – https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wistech/index.htm
Device re-utilization – items are refurbished and put on the online Exchange – a combination of items for purchase and free items – – https://wisconsinat4all.com
It is not clear if private individuals can post items on here – I do not live in Wisconsin and cannot access the site, so I can’t say.
As well as being listed online, the equipment is distributed to individuals through Independent Living Centers and other nonprofits. You can also try donating to one of these centers.
To find an Independent Living Center near you, go to the following page and click on your county, and you will get all the information you require to call about donating equipment – https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disabilities/physical/ilcs-contact.htm
Otherwise, contact the WisTech program to donate your equipment – 608 514 2513.
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Wisconsin DNR – Department of Natural Resources
The DNR recommends the following organizations in Wisconsin for donations of DME –
H.E.L.P. Lending Closet – https://www.goodnewswi.com/get-involved/medical-lending-closet/
Independence First Inc. – https://www.independencefirst.org/home/
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Great Lakes Loan Closets
The great Lakes Loan Closets are designed for the residents of Michigan, Wisconsin, Northern Indiana and Northern Illinois.
“Loan closets typically have durable medical equipment (DME) such as wheelchairs, shower chairs, bedside commodes, walkers, crutches, canes, and high-rise toilet seats. Some may also have hospital beds or electric wheelchairs available. Each loan closet is unique, with its own set of eligibility requirements, equipment, and loan period.” – Source – the Great Lakes Loan Closets website
You will find a link on the home page of the website if you wish to donate equipment –https://loanclosets.org/
Wyoming
Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources (WATR)
This is the State Assistive Technology Program.
The WATR has a reuse program that enables individuals to exchange online, sell and recycle gently used equipment – the web page address is – www.wy.at4all.com
To donate directly to the WATR and not use the exchange, you need to fill out a Donated Device Form here – http://www.uwyo.edu/wind/watr/reuse/donate.html
District of Columbia
DC Assistive Technology Program
This is the Washington DC Assistive Technology Program.
There is a reuse and recycling program – you can call them about donations at 202 547 4747 Ext 400.
Website – https://www.atpdc.org/
Where to donate a bedside commode in your neighborhood
Any of these places in your neighborhood may accept the donation of a bedside commode, or any other durable medical equipment –
- Local Hospitals –
- Emergency Rooms
- Private Clinics
- Thrift Stores
- Senior Centers or Elderly Day Care Centers
- Veterans Group Homes
- Retirement Homes
- Assisted Living Facilities
- Nursing Homes
Online listing sites where you can donate medical equipment near you
Posting donations on online listings and platforms, allows you to make the area to which you are offering your bedside commode as local as you want.
You can offer to give the equipment and charge just for the shipping.
Don’t offer to let people come and pick it up, as there are people who may take advantage, especially if you are caring for an elderly person.
When doing an online posting, you should create a throwaway email address, as you don’t want to get inundated with spam emails – so don’t use your regular private email for this.
I have written short illustrated guides on how to donate on each of the following platforms –
Craigslist.com – “How To Donate Used Medical Equipment Near Me On Craigslist ? An Illustrated Guide”
UsedHME.com – “How To Donate Used Medical Equipment Near Me On UsedHME ? An illustrated Guide”
Facebook.com – “How To Donate Used Medical Equipment Near Me On Facebook ? An Illustrated Guide”
Freecycle.org – “How To Donate Used Medical Equipment Near Me on Freecycle.org ? A Very Quick Illustrated Guide”
Nextdoor.com – “How To Get Free Medical Equipment Near Me On Nextdoor.com ? A Quick Illustrated Guide”
OfferUp.com – I haven’t written an article on this, as there is a very good video showing how to use OfferUp, see below.
Organizations near you, who may know where you can donate a bedside commode
Here are a few more organizations where you might be able to get ideas of where you may be able to donate your bedside commode –
Area Agency On Aging
Area Agencies on Aging are deeply involved with local community groups, caregivers and the elderly, so they of all the groups who will be happy to take your donation.
To find your local Area Agency on Aging, you can use their locator tool – click here to do so.
Social Services
Your local social services may know of any programs that are accepting donations of durable medical equipment.
Churches
Your local church should be appraised of projects in the community and which are accepting donations of durable medical equipment.
Local Town Hall or Chamber of Commerce
Your local Town Hall, or Chamber of Commerce, should be able to tell you about local charities and community groups which run programs to refurbish durable medical equipment, and then distribute it in the community.
Your equipment wasn’t accepted – Why ?
Only offer your equipment if it is in a reasonable condition, or “gently used”, as most of the groups describe it.
On the person to person exchanges, you may find it possible to donate older and more worn equipment, but some ask to check the equipment first.
Some places, that you offer equipment to, may turn it down because they don’t have the equipment, or the protocols, to sanitize it.
A company cannot just reuse medical equipment, or give it away or sell it, if it has not been properly treated.
The nonprofit organizations listed here all have the correct equipment and expertise to do so.
Tax deductions on donations
Keep the receipt for any donations for equipment that you make to any charities.
If you would like to get a tax deduction for your donation, the IRS will require a receipt for the item.
I’m Gareth, the author and owner of Looking After Mom and Dad.com
I have been a caregiver for over 10 yrs and share all my tips here.
