As we age, we often acquire eyeglasses, a hearing aid, and other health and mobility aids. As much as they support us in life, even after death, these devices can be donated and continue to help others.

Eyeglasses collected at Arbor Memorial locations across Canada are often given to CLERC, which stands for Canadian Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centre. The Lions Club service organization collects millions of pairs each year. Volunteers clean, sort by prescription strength, and package the glasses for new owners. Recycled glasses are distributed to people in need in low and middle-income communities where they’ll have the greatest impact.

The Lions’ CLERC program also accepts soft eyeglass cases, safety glasses, sunglasses and hearing aids.

Hearing aids can be donated at some retailers too. For example, HearingisBelieving, part of HearingLife, has locations across Eastern Ontario. They collect used hearing aids as part of their recycling program to bring on their international hearing missions.

Mobility devices, such as walkers and canes, can be donated as well. The Canadian Red Cross accepts a wide range of health equipment donations. The items are loaned to people in the community with mobility issues and those dealing with illness or injury.

ALS Canada is another organization that accepts a variety of equipment donations to be used in their Equipment Loan Program, including, among other items, bath lifts and wheelchairs. The Loan program makes these items available to individuals living with ALS for free.

While deciding what to do with your or a loved one’s personal items is never easy, your donation will make a great difference in someone’s life. It’s yet another way to honour their legacy, and that’s a comforting thought.

There are often local organizations in your area where you can donate glasses, medical and mobility equipment. Please call your closest Arbor Memorial location for recommendations and to learn more about funeral and cemetery pre-planning.