Impact & History
REquipment grew out of an unmet need in Massachusetts.
People who relied on wheelchairs had no program providing backup mobility equipment when their primary equipment needed repair or replacement. Delays involving repairs and insurance could threaten employment, education, community access, and health.
In some cases, people spent weeks in bed while waiting for a simple part or repair.
Our Impact
Since 2014, REquipment has distributed more than 15,000 donated devices across Massachusetts, returned more than $27 million in value to the community, and kept hundreds of tons of equipment out of landfills.
15,000+
gently used DME and AT devices provided across Massachusetts
$27 million+
in value returned to the community
Hundreds of tons
of equipment diverted from landfills
In 2024 alone, an estimated 63 tons of valuable equipment were diverted from disposal and provided to Massachusetts households that needed it.
How REquipment Began
2011: Seeking a Better Solution
In 2011, disability advocates and state agency leaders came together to address the lack of backup equipment for wheelchair users facing repair and replacement delays.
They envisioned a statewide durable medical equipment reuse program that could give people another way to access needed equipment.
2013: The Pilot Begins
Under Karen Langley’s program development leadership at EOHHS, REquipment was piloted to serve Greater Boston with support from the Shapiro Family Foundation, Spaulding Rehabilitation, and The Boston Home.
The pilot provided 39 pieces of durable medical equipment in its first year.
2015: REquipment, Inc. Is Established
In 2015, Karen Langley retired from state government and registered REquipment, Inc. as a nonprofit organization.
She became the organization’s first CEO in an unpaid position.
REquipment soon expanded statewide through public-private partnerships and support from state agencies, nonprofit organizations, disability advocates, and allies in the Massachusetts Legislature.
Statewide Expansion
As the program grew, public agencies and nonprofit partners helped provide reuse facilities, technical support, equipment refurbishment, delivery, donation drop-off locations, assistive technology reuse, and community outreach.
This network allowed REquipment to expand beyond Greater Boston and serve people throughout Massachusetts.
2023: New Leadership
In 2023, Karen Langley passed leadership of REquipment to Adriana Mallozzi.
The transition realized Langley’s goal for REquipment to be led by a disability community leader and user of assistive technology.
REquipment Today
Today, REquipment provides DME and assistive technology reuse services across Massachusetts through a statewide network of public and nonprofit partners.
Massachusetts residents can search for available equipment online or call 800-261-9841 for assistance.
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