November 4, 2020
October of 2020 was an excellent month for REquipment! We delivered 135 refurbished and sanitized DME devices to our neighbors across Massachusetts. These included 40 manual wheelchairs, 8 power wheelchairs, 7 scooters, and 24 shower chairs: devices that make it possible for individuals of all ages with disabilities, as well as seniors and veterans, to get around in their homes and communities with independence and confidence. We couldn’t be prouder to be serving Massachusetts communities this effectively and safely (with tight Covid-19 protocols) during the pandemic.
To date this year, we have delivered 523 pieces of refurbished equipment valued at over $680,000!
However, I’m reaching out because we need your help and support for continuing into the new year. Massachusetts has not passed an FY’21 state budget, and our state contract ends December 31. Rumors are the budget won’t pass until early January 2021, but we have no assurances. Without a guarantee of funding, we will be forced to lay off staff and shut down operations starting in mid-December.
How you can help:
- Contact your state senator and state representative and let them know they need to pass the FY’21 budget as soon as possible so that programs relying on state funding can provide services. Need their email address or phone number? Search your legislator.
- Ask your state senator and state representative to ensure the REquipment Durable Medical Equipment Reuse Program gets funded through June 30, 2021, in Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission’s 4120-4000 account. Let them know the program will close down without their support. Let them know why this program is important to you.
- Make a financial donation to the program through our web portal at www.dmereuse.org or send a check to REquipment DME Reuse, PO Box 311, Methuen, MA 01844. We have secured a small SBA loan to cover salaries for 6 weeks beginning January 2021. But we need resources to pay for telephones, gas for delivery vans, etc. to bridge the gap while we await a contract extension.
Your support will mean so much during this critical time. Please feel free to contact me at klangley@dmereuse.org with any questions. Thank you for your essential ongoing support.
