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Medical lending closets are an alternative to purchasing short used equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, commodes, crutches, canes and bath seats for a short duration such as rehabilitation recovery or a visiting relative.
For people seeking assistance outside of the Chicago area, please contact your local village, township hall, faith/worship congregations, or senior center for lending closets in your town.
DME Durable Medical Exchange (ucpseguin.org)
DME helps people find hospital beds, motorized and manual wheelchairs, pediatric therapy equipment, canes and walkers. Nearly 3,204 pieces of durable medical equipment have been given to people who otherwise could not afford them
Phone: 708.444.8460 x 230
Elderwerks Lending Closet Directory
A statewide list of lending closet providers offering free or low-cost access to medical equipment like walkers, wheelchairs, and shower chairs. The page is organized by county and includes contact information for each provider.
No phone number listed.
Equip for Equality
Equip for Equality is an Illinois-based nonprofit organization that provides information and advocacy for people with disabilities. They have a medical equipment reuse program that may be able to assist or provide referrals.
Phone: 800.537.2632
Figueroa Wu Family Foundation
This organization was started by Dr. Figueroa and Dr. Wu. They have a large supply of donated rolling walkers, bathroom equipment, canes and a few wheelchairs.
Phone: 773.812.3150 or 773.512.2657
GotDME
Got DME is a national directory which enables anyone to easily find existing places to borrow or donate wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, shower safety equipment and more, at no cost.
Great Lakes Loan Closets - Free or Low Cost Medical Equipment
Serving Michigan, Wisconsin, Northern Indiana & Northern Illinois
https://loanclosets.org/
No phone number listed
Heart to Heart St. Gertrude Catholic Church
Heart to Heart is a ministry of St. Gertrude Parish in Chicago that provides companionship, transportation, and support services to older adults and individuals with disabilities. Volunteers assist with errands, friendly visits, and help navigating daily tasks to promote independent living and community connection.
Phone: 773.973.5464
Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP)
The IATP is a statewide program that assists individuals with disabilities in obtaining assistive technology, including medical equipment. They have a loan program that allows individuals to borrow equipment. (
Phone: 800.852.5110
Muscular Dystrophy Association
The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) offers a wide range of support services for individuals living with neuromuscular diseases. These include care coordination, equipment assistance, educational resources, and access to multidisciplinary clinics. The page also provides information on community programs, advocacy, and how to connect with local support networks.
Phone: 833.275.6321
