Spark Stories – How your donations make a difference!
Have you ever struggled to see small print, such as on your phone, or squinted to read a menu in low lighting or even had trouble getting out of bed due to an injury or a strenuous workout? So many of us have experienced these things and know it’s an inconvenience to not be able to move easily or see like we’re used to.
Imagine how many people there are, just in our own community, that can be more independent with just a little help from assistive technology. From low tech items like a simple slide board that helps a person transfer from a wheelchair to a bed or chair, to high tech apps that magnify, read out loud to you or even identify objects, helping people find solutions to make their lives a little easier is extremely rewarding, and all of your donations help us to help them.
This February, Spark has given out over pieces of equipment worth over $14K!
We helped a mother who was looking for a gait trainer for her 7-year-old. He outgrew the one that insurance covered, so she called us and we happened to have exactly the size she needed for him. Children quickly outgrow equipment and insurance typically can only pay for one item. We are thankful we have been able to provide these essential items to families in need.
A young man that did not have insurance needed a specialized wheelchair due to his injuries, and Spark was able to provide him with one that will help him be mobile AND comfortable.
We received a donation of a device called a vitality swing that stimulates the lymphatic system, improves circulation and oxygenates the blood. I knew just who to call, a man who inquired about exercise equipment the week before for his two sons who use wheelchairs. He had never heard of this device, and neither had we!
We’ve helped a student with low vision be able to read easier using digital magnification through a CCTV loan. We also loaned another student a computer to be able to take classes online.
Fernando is our durable medical equipment manager and he can accept donations on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-4:30 located at the back of our building. You can also donate through this website.
These examples happen every month at Spark. Do we always have the items we need to loan to people? No, but we wish we did. We rely on equipment donations as well as monetary donations to keep bringing that feeling of freedom and independence in small and big ways. Your donations help people get that feeling-and it’s a beautiful thing. Thank you, it is appreciated more than you’ll ever know!
With gratitude,
The Spark staff