As you’ve probably figured out, I’m always on the lookout for helpful resources for seniors. Recently, I came across one I hadn’t heard of before. A Caring Closet is an organization that provides free, gently used medical equipment and incontinence supplies to anyone in need. There are no restrictions based on zip code, income, age, or insurance status. Services are available to anyone who can benefit. I recently met with Executive Director Ava Rose, who shared that the organization serves between 600 and 800 people each week. Now in its 10th year, it operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
The organization’s mission is simple yet impactful: to support dignity and independence by offering free, gently used durable medical equipment to anyone in need.
If you’re in need of equipment, you can visit their warehouse at 7500 NE 15th Ave, Suite 1C, in Vancouver, Washington. While it’s a bit of a drive from Tualatin, it’s certainly manageable. The warehouse is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, as well as the first Saturday of each month, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There is no application process. Items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re unable to visit in person, someone else can pick up items on your behalf as long as they are comfortable signing a waiver to accept the equipment.
Commonly available items include:
- Two-wheel walkers
- Four-wheel walkers
- Canes and crutches
- Shower chairs
- Bedside commodes
- Manual wheelchairs
- Toilet risers and safety frames
- Incontinence supplies
This is only a partial list of the expansive stock. For a more complete inventory and additional information, visit their website at acaringcloset.org.
If you are looking for more specialized equipment, such as transfer benches, Hoyer lifts, or hospital beds, it’s best to call ahead to check availability at 360-258-0039 or email info@acaringcloset.org. If the item is available, it can be held for one business day.
All of the equipment provided is donated, and your donations would be eagerly accepted. That’s how they are able to do what they do. No appointment is needed to donate. You just need to drop your contributions off during warehouse hours. The website has a list of items that they are unable to accept, so it’s worth taking a look before taking your donations in.
A sampling of unusable supplies includes prescription glasses, CPAP machines and accessories, feeding tube and catheter supplies, and oxygen supplies.
Another somewhat similar resource, though on a smaller scale, is located in Wilsonville. The Community Center offers a free medical supply loan program. If you’re in need, you can visit during office hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You’ll be asked to sign a waiver for any items you borrow.
Available supplies typically include commodes, toilet risers, canes, knee scooters, walkers, and incontinence items. Additional items may be available, but you’ll need to visit in person to see the full selection.
Donations are welcome, but it’s best to confirm in advance to ensure items meet program guidelines. For more information, you can contact Sadie Wallenberg at 503-570-1526 or Wallenberg@WilsonvilleOregon.gov.
It’s reassuring to know that these resources are available if something unexpectedly comes up, and it’s nice to know that you have options for passing on equipment that you no longer need.
As always, there’s something new just around the corner. There’s another resource, another story, another reminder that this community is full of people quietly making a difference.
