A broken bone or sudden surgery often creates an immediate need for crutches for temporary, non-weight-bearing support. Purchasing these devices, which may only be needed for a few weeks, can be a financial burden during an already stressful time. Fortunately, communities have established networks to circulate durable medical equipment (DME) back to those who need it, often at no cost. Finding free crutches involves looking beyond standard retail stores, as these resources operate on a donation and loan basis.
Non-Profit Organizations and Equipment Banks
Large, established non-profit organizations frequently operate regional medical equipment banks that collect, sanitize, and lend DME, including crutches, to the public. Groups such as the Lions Club International often sponsor local chapters that run “lending closets” stocked with donated items. These organizations are reliable sources due to their substantial inventory and formal process for managing equipment loans.
Goodwill Industries sometimes manages free medical equipment loaner programs, or individual locations may offer crutches for a small, refundable fee. The typical process involves a short-term loan, often three to six months, with the expectation that the equipment will be returned after recovery. Contact your regional Goodwill or Lions Club chapter directly to inquire about specific terms and availability.
Local Community Aid and Lending Closets
Smaller, local organizations and community centers provide another effective pathway to finding free crutches, relying on neighborhood goodwill and volunteer efforts. These “loan closets” are often run by local churches, senior centers, or municipal fire departments, and their programs are typically less advertised than larger non-profits. While the stock in these volunteer-driven closets can be limited, they often offer immediate access and serve a smaller, geographically defined area.
To locate these informal resources, call local governmental offices, such as the Department of Aging, or non-emergency community referral lines for a list of local aid programs. Many church-based ministries and senior centers offer short-term loans, sometimes requiring only a signed release form. These programs are valuable for immediate needs, though they may have specific hours of operation due to their reliance on volunteer staff.
Hospital and Physical Therapy Loaner Programs
Crutches are frequently provided by hospitals or orthopedic offices following an injury or surgery, but this equipment is often billed to insurance or provided on a temporary loan basis. However, some physical therapy (PT) clinics and orthopedic practices manage their own equipment circulation programs for common items like crutches and walkers.
These programs serve their patients and sometimes the wider community. Patients should inquire with their physical therapist or the hospital’s discharge office regarding the availability of a free loaner pool or if the facility partners with a local non-profit equipment bank. Orthopedic specialists’ offices often act as collection points for gently used equipment, providing direct referrals to local DME loan closets. This option offers the advantage of having the equipment professionally sized and adjusted by a clinician before use.
Digital Platforms and Peer-to-Peer Networks
Online community networks are a modern source for finding free crutches directly from neighbors who no longer need them. Platforms like Freecycle and local “Buy Nothing” groups on social media specialize in the free exchange of goods within a localized area. These peer-to-peer exchanges operate without commerce, making them excellent places to post a specific request for crutches.
When using online classified sites, such as the “Free” section of Craigslist, use clear search terms like “crutches” or “DME” to filter results effectively. Safety should be a priority when arranging a pickup with a stranger; it is advisable to meet in a well-lit, public location or bring a companion. Availability on these platforms is variable, but the turnaround time can be fast.