Paraquad’s Reuse Program: Recycling All Types of Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is the key to independence for many people with disabilities. Various types of assistive technology help people move, communicate, see and integrate themselves into the broader community. Paraquad’s assistive technology specialists dedicate their time to reducing cost barriers by keeping old devices out of landfills and giving them new life — read on to learn more about our Reuse Program. 

The Assistive Technology Reuse Program 

Paraquad’s Assistive Technology Reuse Program provides used, durable medical equipment to people with disabilities. Our supply varies based on donations, but it often includes mobility equipment, devices for daily living assistance, adaptive devices for people who are blind and deaf and more. We provide our community members with commonly used types of assistive technology, such as: 

• Canes

• Hospital beds 

• Electric lifts

• Shower chairs

• Motorized wheelchairs

Our assistive technology specialists assist people who may not have insurance or coverage through their insurance. We believe all individuals should participate in every facet of society and assistive technology facilitates community integration. 

Through our services, we’ve helped countless Missourians live independently rather than resorting to an assisted living facility. In FY22 alone, we provided over 400 pieces of equipment to our participants. These efforts collecting and distributing many types of assistive technology saved the community nearly $317,000. 

Fostering Community Integration

Community integration is the primary goal in all our independent living efforts. Over the years, we’re proud to say that our efforts have had real-life impacts on people from Rolla, Missouri, to Muscuta, Illinois. 

For example, a vehicle struck one of our community members on a major road. The crash destroyed their wheelchair and, unfortunately, Medicaid would not cover the costs of purchasing a new one. Without mobility assistance, this individual’s job selling tickets at the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station was in jeopardy. 

Shortly after, Paraquad’s assistive technology specialists provided an improved wheelchair with an elevated seat. The seat allowed them to raise themselves to places that were previously inaccessible and created greater visibility in public spaces. Not only was this person able to return to work, but their elevated wheelchair empowered them to eventually become a tour guide. 

Their story is just one of many where used equipment gained new life through Paraquad. Like many types of used assistive technology, the donated wheelchair may have been destined for a landfill — but through the Reuse Program, we instead used it to change a life.

Contacting Our Assistive Technology Specialists

We hope to continually expand the Assistive Technology Reuse Program to reach more people with disabilities and restore independence across Missouri. Thankfully, our services are growing. Four years ago, we were only able to distribute about 60 items per fiscal year — now, thanks to state and local support, we donate hundreds. 

Are you interested in receiving aid from the Reuse Program or donating a piece of equipment? Contact our assistive technology specialists at (314) 289-4266 to make an appointment today.