Non-Profit Partner

Mission:

To restore dignity and self-sufficiency to the under-served and under-insured by providing gently used durable medical equipment (DME) to those in need at no cost in Southwest Washington.

What Is The Caring Closet?

A Caring Closet is a nonprofit organization based in Vancouver, Washington, that provides free gently used durable medical equipment—such as wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and more—to individuals in need, particularly seniors and those with disabilities. Their mission is to ensure that people who cannot afford or access this essential equipment still receive the support they need to live safely and independently.

They also accept donations of medical equipment and supplies, which they clean, refurbish, and redistribute to the community.

Where They Came From

A Caring Closet began in 2015, when Jodie Zelazny and Sara Scheetz started collecting durable medical equipment (DME) in their garages. Their goal was simple but powerful: to help people in their community who needed medical equipment but couldn’t afford it.

Here’s a quick look at how it all started and grew:

They initially stored donations in a 5×10 storage unit, thinking it would be more than enough space.

As donations and demand grew, they quickly outgrew that space and became an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit just a year later.
They then moved into a 2,500-square-foot warehouse to better serve the community.

In 2022, they relocated again to a new facility at 2700 NE Andresen Road, Suite D4 in Vancouver, WA.

Their mission expanded over time to include partnerships with organizations like Randall Children’s Hospital, and they now serve both seniors and pediatric patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they even distributed care packages and iPads to help families stay connected with loved ones in care facilities.

Ways You Can Help

💝 1. Donate Medical Equipment
They accept gently used durable medical equipment (DME) such as:

This helps them redistribute equipment to those in need at no cost.

💵2.Make a Financial Donation
Monetary donations help cover:

You can usually donate online through their website or by mail.

🙋♀️3. Volunteer Your Time
They often need help with:

📣 4. Spread the Word
Follow them on social media, share their mission, or refer people who may need help or want to donate.

Upcoming Event:

Annual Whiskey Wine and Wheelchairs fundraiser on February 20, 2026