About Changing Hands

Changing Hands is a program of UCP Central PA that provides restored and refurbished home medical equipment and assistive technology devices and aids to Pennsylvania residents who are unable to obtain the necessary equipment through any other means.

If your insurance does not cover certain equipment, or if you have an immediate need but must wait out a grace period before coverage commences, Changing Hands can help.

Our staff works with local Area Agencies on Aging and other human service organizations to provide a seamless system of support for individuals and families who might benefit from such equipment... either at home, at school, at work, or at play. Plus, we have a certified Assistive Technology Specialist on hand to offer demonstrations and to assist you in determining what equipment best meets your needs.

All our equipment is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and is provided to the user free of charge.

A partial listing of the types of equipment and devices we exchange includes:

• Walkers • Communications Devices • Hoyer Lifts • Assistive Listening Devices • Bath Seats and Toilet Seats • Blind/Low Vision Aids • Transfer Benches and Transfer Boards • Stair Glides • Manual and Power Wheelchairs • Canes and Crutches • Daily Living Aids (Eating, Dressing, etc.) • Adaptive Games, Toys, and Recreational Devices • Adapted Telephones • and More!

How does the process work?

The redistribution of equipment will be handled in one of three ways:

• The individual or family member picks up the equipment at the Changing Hands center.
• Changing Hands makes arrangements to get the needed equipment to a more conveniently located UCP office.
• If the individual or family member is unable to collect the equipment independently, Changing Hands will help identify someone who may be able to assist.
• If you have an item or items that you would like to donate to Changing Hands, please contact us directly to make arrangements to drop the item(s) off.

Who is eligible to receive equipment?

Pennsylvania residents of all ages who have a need for equipment, but do not have the financial means or a funding source to obtain it, are welcome to participate in the Changing Hands equipment exchange program. Due to liability issues, individuals under 18 may be required to provide a prescription or therapist’s recommendation to obtain certain items.

While we operate primarily in Central PA, donations will be accepted and distributed to anyone throughout the state, as long as suitable arrangements can be made.