STLHELP's IMPACT

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Every day, the St. Louis Health Equipment Lending Program (STLHELP) puts hope within reach by providing free, life-changing medical equipment to people who would otherwise go without. From a wheelchair that restores independence to a hospital bed that brings comfort at home, each item tells a story of dignity regained.

This report not only celebrates the progress we’ve made together, but also shines a light on the urgent needs still unmet—too many of our neighbors continue to wait for the help they deserve.

Here for You, Your Family,
and Your Community

Every piece of equipment we provide carries a story—a grandfather who can now get out of bed on his own, a grandmother who can stay at home with dignity, a patient who feels independent again. Behind every number is a neighbor, a friend, or a family member whose life is brighter because of your support.

Serving Individuals, Friends & Families, HealthCare Providers

Older Adults Served

In total, 2,648 older adults have received life-changing equipment in the past year—giving them freedom of movement, better health outcomes, and the comfort of knowing they are not alone.

We serve neighbors who rely on walkers, wheelchairs, and hospital beds to stay safe and connected to their families.

A home health nurse of A&W Healthcare, which focuses on North County, notes: “St. Louis HELP is really their only shot at having a decent life.”

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The past year has seen an Increase in Community Giving of Used Home Medical Equipment, through HELP HUBs. STLHELP is fortunate to have six partners in our communities throughout the region that collect and give away used home medical equipment as part of STLHELP.

Where Medical Equipment Donations Come From

Generosity is everywhere, but here’s how it looks across our region:

Olivette Warehouse: 8,302 items
Crystal City HUB: 1,236 items
St. Charles HUB: 1,682 items
Lemay HUB: 1,263 items
Mehlville HUB: 958 items
High Ridge HUB: 104 items
North City HUB: 50 items
Soulard HUB: 14 items

Total: 13,629 items given by neighbors, for

These aren’t just statistics—they are mothers, fathers, grandparents, babies and friends. By standing with STLHELP, you make sure our region’s older adults can continue to live with dignity and independence.

HELPING

At-Risk Kids

Meeting the Need

“It typically takes months for our young patients' equipment to arrive after they discharge home, which is valuable time wasted. STL HELP bridges the gap." Christina Rejko, Physical Therapist, Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital

A fast growing part of STLHELP"s services is serving chldren with special needs, such as spinal bifida, muscular disorders and Ataxia. In the past 12 months, STLHELP has equipped 121 children with the tools they need to live more fully: toddlers learning to walk with stability, grade-school kids who can finally keep up with friends, and teenagers healing at home instead of in the hospital.

The youngest (0–4 years) are often children with developmental or medical needs who now have access to supportive equipment.
School-aged kids (5–10 years) gained walkers, standers, and devices that help them be included at school and at play.
Adolescents (11–18 years) received specialized equipment that lets them recover, regain independence, and prepare for adulthood.
And thanks to 2024’s closing months, 58 more children had their lives changed with free equipment—proof that demand only continues to grow.

Meanwhile, 6 young adults (ages 18–24), just starting out in life, were able to maintain mobility and dignity thanks to STLHELP.

✨ Together, that’s 127 young people supported in just one year—each with their own story of hope and independence.

Environment

Every walker, wheelchair, and hospital bed donated to STLHELP has a double impact: it changes a life and protects our planet.

Building Inventory, Building Hope

Our HELP HUBs are more than distribution sites—they are neighborhood collection centers where generosity flows in every day. Thanks to our community, donations soared to 13,629 items last year—more than double the year before. Each of those items represents someone choosing to give their neighbor a chance at independence, while keeping valuable equipment out of landfills.

Protecting the Environment

By re-using and re-loving equipment, STLHELP diverted 235 tons of home medical equipment from landfills last year—up from 150 tons the year before. That’s not just a number; it’s thousands of pieces of metal, fabric, and electronics given a second life. It’s cleaner air, less waste, and a healthier world for future generations.