For many Virginians, access to mobility equipment can mean the difference between isolation and independence. The Foundation for Rehabilitation Equipment & Endowment is providing a lifeline to those in need.
F.R.E.E. is a volunteer-driven nonprofit that collects, sanitizes and redistributes gently used mobility and rehabilitation equipment to low-income, uninsured or under-insured adults throughout Virginia. By providing essential tools like manual and power wheelchairs, walkers, canes, bath and toilet aids and other specialty items, it helps restore dignity, independence and quality of life for all.
With seven locations across Virginia (Roanoke, Richmond, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Lynchburg, Winchester and Harrisonburg), F.R.E.E. is building a statewide network of care, compassion and community support.
The foundation acts as a connector — matching gently used equipment with people who need it but might not have insurance, the right coverage or the time to wait.
“We’re kind of like that middle neighbor,” said Robin Ramsey, chief operating officer and executive director. “The one who knows someone down the street who just had surgery and needs a wheelchair, and someone else who no longer needs theirs.”
These pieces of equipment can completely transform someone’s life — taking them from being confined to the small space of their bed to having the freedom to move around, go to the store and enjoy the outdoors.
F.R.E.E. also provides essential equipment that supports everyday tasks, like safely using the bathroom and taking a shower, helping individuals regain both mobility and dignity.
One of the foundation’s early wins was a collaboration with Goodwill, which had tractor-trailer loads of unsellable, donated medical equipment.
“We realized we could give that equipment a second life,” Ramsey said. “Once it arrives at their facility, each item is carefully cleaned, repaired if needed and sanitized to meet medical standards.”
It’s not only about the items, though. It’s about what these items allow people to do. Walk to their kitchen. Shower independently. Leave the house. “Be human again,” according to Ramsey.
Ramsey’s own mother inspired the nonprofit. She was a fiercely independent woman, but after a serious accident, she found herself unable to do basic tasks — until someone delivered a simple walker and a shower seat. That changed everything.
“It wasn’t just about mobility,” Ramsey said. “It was about dignity, about getting back to being yourself.”
Stories like this are at the heart of the F.R.E.E. Foundation and serve as living proof that generosity has a ripple effect. A walker donated in Richmond might end up in Roanoke. A wheelchair returned to Blacksburg might make its way to Charlottesville.
Every donation becomes part of a quiet, powerful movement, as the foundation has gifted nearly 50,000 pieces of equipment to more than 32,000 people statewide. By building deeper partnerships with hospitals, clinics and other nonprofits, the organization is helping ensure no patient falls through the cracks due to the high cost of medical equipment.
One of the most exciting developments at F.R.E.E. is a new partnership with the Sentara Health System. Currently operating within eight Sentara hospitals statewide, it plans to expand to 10 hospitals and launch 20 hospital-based equipment closets over the next two years.
“We will be able to place medical equipment closets inside each of Sentara’s Virginia hospitals, ensuring that patients who are uninsured, under-insured or denied equipment by their insurance can still access the tools they need before leaving the hospital,” Ramsey said.
Ultimately, the best way to support F.R.E.E. is to share what you no longer need. Someone else’s independence might depend on it.
The nonprofit is always looking for donations — especially wheelchairs, walkers and other rehab equipment. The organization also welcomes volunteers who want to clean, repair and distribute items.
Learn more about F.R.E.E.’s mission here.
