Donating a used hearing aid transforms a device into a resource for someone in need. The high cost of new devices creates significant barriers to care for many individuals facing hearing loss. Donating is a valuable form of electronic recycling, ensuring complex micro-components are repurposed rather than contributing to landfill waste. Organizations refurbish these used aids with new parts and reprogram them to match a new recipient’s specific hearing profile. This helps bridge the gap for low-income individuals and communities worldwide who otherwise would not have access to this technology.
Preparing Your Hearing Aids for Donation
Before sending your hearing aids to a donation program, a few preparatory steps ensure the device is ready for refurbishment. Begin by gently cleaning the device, using a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any earwax or debris from the casing and sound ports. It is important to remove and safely dispose of all batteries, as most organizations cannot accept used or expired batteries due to shipping regulations and potential leakage.
Gathering accompanying accessories, such as cleaning tools, cords, chargers, and user manuals, is helpful, as these items are often distributed with the refurbished device. Since most major donation programs are registered non-profit organizations, you may be eligible for a tax deduction. Print any required donation forms or include a note with your contact information to ensure the organization can send you a receipt for your records.
Major National and Global Donation Programs
Several large, established non-profit organizations operate dedicated mail-in programs, making it easy to donate used hearing aids from anywhere. The Lions Clubs International Hearing Aid Recycling Program (HARP) is a major global initiative. Lions Clubs collect used hearing aids of any age, brand, or condition and send them to recycling centers where they are cleaned and refurbished.
Devices that cannot be refurbished may still be used for parts or recycled for their precious metals. The proceeds from this recycling fund the purchase of new aids for those in need.
The Hearing Aid Project, a program of Sertoma International, provides refurbished hearing aids to low-income adults within the United States. They partner with hearing health professionals and the University of Kansas Medical Center to manage a hearing aid bank, ensuring devices are professionally cleaned and fitted.
This program also supplies hearing aids for international medical mission trips, extending its reach to underserved communities. To donate by mail, find a dedicated donation form on their website outlining packaging and mailing instructions. Organizations like the Starkey Hearing Foundation also accept donations through their “Hear Now” program, contributing to their mission of providing hearing devices to people with limited resources worldwide.
Utilizing Local Drop-Off Centers and Clinics
For those who prefer an in-person option, many local facilities serve as drop-off points for hearing aid donations. Most audiology or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) clinics accept used hearing aids, often acting as collection centers for the larger national programs. It is recommended to call the clinic ahead of time to confirm they are accepting donations and to check their operating hours.
Community service organizations operate regional collection drives. Local chapters of the Lions Club, for example, often have collection boxes located in community centers, libraries, or optical shops. Local Rotary or Kiwanis clubs may also partner with regional charities to collect and funnel devices toward refurbishment programs.
Some hospitals and senior centers also maintain collection points. While these local points do not perform the refurbishment themselves, they provide an accessible way to ensure your device eventually reaches a major recycling and distribution organization.