BALTIMORE, MD (Friday, April 16, 2021) — Mayor Brandon M. Scott is announcing a new waste diversion initiative, assisting the Maryland Department of Aging in launching their Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use Program in Baltimore City. The Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use Program is a first-of-its-kind, statewide initiative providing durable medical equipment (DME) to Maryland residents with any illness, injury, or disability.
“We are extremely excited to launch the Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use Program in Baltimore City. The idea that we can identify an opportunity for solid waste diversion and support residents in our city who need it most is a win-win for Baltimore, just in time for Earth Day,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “We are grateful to the Maryland Department of Aging and their contractor, Maryland Environmental Services, for their partnership and dedication to a healthier Baltimore. This new initiative reflects my administration’s commitment to a sustainable future for our city and our most vulnerable residents.”
The equipment is provided regardless of age, free of charge. Examples of acceptable DME for donation are wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, and scooters. For a full list of acceptable DME, click here.
Baltimore City will provide two collection locations for DME donations facilitated by the Department of Public Works (DPW). Collections began April 15 at the Convenience Drop-Off Centers at the Northwest Transfer Station (5030 Reisterstown Road) and the Quarantine Road Landfill (6100 Quarantine Road). DME donations will be sanitized and refurbished for eligible adults and children in need.
“The Baltimore City Department of Public Works stands ready to support this wonderful and worthwhile initiative,” said Acting Department of Public Works Director Matthew W. Garbark. “This program reflects our mission and vision as a department by supporting the health and environment of Baltimore City. Not only will DPW be diverting DME from landfills but we will also make donating easier by establishing collection sites for residents to use.”
Find more information at publicworks.baltimorecity.gov/recycling-dmeprogram.
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