The Donor Closet - medical equipment for those in need

By Patty Price

for the ShorelineAreaNews

Today I was given an “eye opener”….

Thanks to Bob, the director at the Shoreline Senior Center, who was trying to clear out a messy back room, I wound up with my van full of “medical aids” which I had volunteered to take to a place I had heard of in Edmonds, which recycled such things as crutches, wheel chairs, bed pans, and walkers … but I had no idea of what I was to find.

Here in a basement under the Pancake House in Edmonds, are neatly arranged, useful and needed equipment for those who are handicapped, on low income or who have been denied these items by Medicare.

The story has to be told about “Bill” who started this “donor closet,” and the 30 volunteers who work there, repair items, and do all that needs to be done to get equipment to those who need it desperately.

They even have a free monthly drawing for a recycled scooter or power chair for anyone with MS who lives in the Washington area.

The best information is to be found on their web site: MSHelpingHands, which says they want "to assist those who have fallen through the cracks of the Social Services System."

Read it and remember them the next time you see a slightly dented, broken or dinged piece of medical equipment. Call them at 425-712-1807 – they will pick up or welcome you to see this place yourself. 

Bob welcomes volunteers who can help with the equipment repair. Let's get the word out so this will no longer be, as their brochure says: “ One of the Best Kept Secrets in Edmonds.”

The Donor Closet is at 409 Howell Way in Edmonds 98020. It is open 10 am to 3 pm, Monday through Saturday. 425-712-1807. Administrative contact 425-712-1804, or email.

Photos by Patty Price