FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Catholic Charities’ Medical Loan Closet Offers Free Medical Devices To Keep People Moving After Surgery, Injury or Illness

PRESCOTT, Ariz. (March 2, 2021): After injuring her knee, Lorna struggled to get around because she didn't have – nor could she afford – to buy a walker or a cane. She couldn’t get to the kitchen, bathroom or her bedroom.

When a friend told the 65-year-old Lorna that she could find what she needed – for free (donations are appreciated) – at the Catholic Charities Medical Loan Closet, she regained her independence and her dignity, with equipment that “saved me” during her recovery, she said.

The Medical Loan Closet, located at the Catholic Charities office at 434 W. Gurley St., is stocked with donated canes, crutches, wheelchairs, walkers, knee braces and raised toilets, among other items, that are loaned out to Northern Arizona residents and returned when not needed anymore.

“Medical equipment is expensive, and that doesn’t help someone who may be sick, injured or recovering from surgery and is living on a fixed or small income,” said Cathy Peterson, Catholic Charities Executive Director, Northern Arizona. “The Medical Loan Closet makes it easy to find and borrow equipment that can make a huge difference in someone’s recovery and personal well-being.”

Operated on a first-come, first-served basis, anyone needing equipment can schedule an appointment on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon. Call 928-707-4687 to arrange to borrow available medical supplies. Catholic Charities requests a nominal donation of $5 for canes, $50 for knee scooters and $20 for most other equipment, but no one is turned away. Donations of used equipment, such as wheelchairs with “feet” and tub benches, are also welcome.

Karen, who lives in Chino Valley, was among those who have donated supplies in the past. Today, she’s grateful to be using the Medical Loan Closet for supplies for her son, for whom she is a caregiver.

“I’m just very thankful for the organization itself and the help they provide to the community,” she said.

For more information about Catholic Charities Community Services, visit www.CatholicCharitiesAZ.org.

About Catholic Charities:

Founded in 1933, Catholic Charities provides care for the vulnerable of all faiths in central and northern Arizona through programs in foster care, early education, veteran services, refugee resettlement, and homeless outreach. Housing for Hope, a separate 501c3, is an affiliate of Catholic Charities and provides affordable housing. Learn more by visiting www.catholiccharitiesaz.org or www.housingforhopeAZ.org. Social connections include www.facebook.com/CatholicCharitiesAZ and twitter.com/CCArizona.

Contact:
Jean Christofferson
Catholic Charities Community Services
602-650-4847