MANCHESTER – Since its inception in 1975, Somebody Cares New Jersey has been “loaning” medical equipment to residents in the Whiting section of the township.
Stephanie Herburger, who serves as executive director to the non-profit agency said, “our senior citizens and especially those recovering from surgeries/medical procedures are often isolated and unable to sustain a healthy quality of life.”
“Many people need expensive medical equipment that health insurance may not fully cover, or that they may only use for a short period of time. Millions of Americans do not have health insurance that completely covers these expenses. A typical loan period is three months, but you may extend the term if needed,” she added.
Items that can be borrowed include bedrails, canes, commodes, rollators, shower benches, walkers, wheelchairs, and incontinence supplies.
Herburger said “referrals for CARES Medical Equipment Loan Program come from local health and social service agencies, hospital discharge planners and others who are aware of a need that our program can fill.”
There are 615 pieces of equipment available, she said. When items are donated or returned, they are cleaned and sanitized.
Medical equipment will only be delivered on Tuesdays between the hours of noon and 1p.m. Call CARES Medical Equipment Loan Program at 723- 350-1400, Ext. 106 to make arrangements. Herburger added, “all Whiting residents are eligible to participate in the CARES Medical Equipment Loan Program.”
“Donations of new, unused, and gently used medical equipment are accepted Monday through Thursday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. by a volunteer Medical Equipment Loan Program Supervisor,” she said.
Other Services
Somebody Cares volunteer attorney Lynnette Brennan’s upcoming schedule includes November 13, 10 a.m. until noon on December 5, and 4 to 6 p.m. on December 18.
“As a reminder, CARES Dial-a-Ride transportation service is available Monday through Friday with a first pickup from 8 a.m. until noon. The last drop-off ride is at 1 p.m. You may call Dial-a-Ride directly at 732-350-2900,” Herburger added. Somebody CARES, Inc. is located at 48 Schoolhouse Road in Whiting.
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