Helping Adults Achieve Independence

By: Robin Ramsey, Executive Director, Foundation for Rehabilitation and Equipment & Endowment

Imagine ordinary activities like getting out of bed, bathing, or getting the mail becoming so difficult that you worry about becoming dependent on others for even simple tasks. The fight to regain safe mobility and independence after a serious illness or injury can be the most challenging struggles of a lifetime.

Many people recovering from injuries or illnesses worry about how they will care for themselves or their family members. The solution to these problems could be as simple as having access to the right medical equipment at the right time. For many, recovery means reliance on specialized equipment to assist them in achieving their fullest potential. Durable medical equipment includes items such as crutches, canes, walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, power chairs, shower chairs, bedside commodes, raised toilet seats, clamp on grab bars, Hoyer lifts, etc.

Imagine the frustration of knowing equipment is available that would give you greater mobility, freedom, and independence, but not having access to it because of inadequate insurance or the inability to pay. For many residents and seniors throughout the Valley, this is a harsh reality.

The Foundation for Rehabilitation Equipment & Endowment (F.R.E.E.) is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) non-profit based in the state of Virginia with seven locations: Roanoke, Lynchburg, Winchester, Richmond, Williamsburg, South Hampton Roads, and now Harrisonburg. Thanks to a grant from Sentara Cares and support from Sentara RMH and JMU, Sentara RMH Safe at Home, and Senior Advantage for supporting the newest F.R.E.E. program open in Harrisonburg in January 2023 at 2000 Beery Rd, Harrisonburg, Virginia.

F.R.E.E. collects, sanitizes, and gifts donated mobility equipment to low-income, uninsured or under-insured adults. F.R.E.E.’s mission is to acquire and provide mobility-related rehabilitation equipment to maximize functional independence and improve quality of life. F.R.E.E. envisions a Virginia where every need for mobility-related rehabilitation equipment is fulfilled.

Equipment donations can now be donated at area Goodwill of the Valleys and collected for F.R.E.E. of Harrisonburg. F.R.E.E. staff and volunteers collect, sanitize, and prepare medical equipment donations making it like new and matching it to meet the needs of our clients. Serving over 3,000 people last year, F.R.E.E.’s clients report significant improvements in their functional independence, reduction in at home falls, decreased medical care needs, and the ability to remain living safely at home.

To learn more visit www.free-foundation.org or call 540-564-5632.

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