The Medical Equipment Recycling Program (also known as MERP) is an initiative of the UPMC Horizon Community Health Foundation. The MERP site in New Castle, Pennsylvania, located in the Professional Building at the UPMC Jameson Campus, helps Lawrence County estates donate medical equipment safely and efficiently.  This program is administered through the UPMC Jameson Community Health Foundation.

All equipment donations must be confirmed by MERP.  Please contact us by contact form (below), telephone, or email before bringing any medical equipment or supplies.

At the New Castle location, MERP staff refurbish equipment with consistent quality standards. They clean each item, inspect key parts, and repair issues when required. This process ensures safety and reliability for the next user. MERP then loans the equipment at no cost to residents who need support. Community members do not need to be UPMC patients to receive items. This open model expands access to critical medical resources across Lawrence County.

MERP is accepting a wide range of durable medical equipment, including wheelchairs and transport chairs (prescription required), rollators (prescription required), and knee scooters (prescription required). The program also welcomes canes, walkers, crutches, knee scooters, over-the-bed tables, bed assist rails, Hoyer lifts and slings, and helpful mobility aids such as reachers, sock aids, and leg lifters. In addition, MERP accepts bathroom safety equipment, including tub benches, shower chairs, tub bars, toilet bars, bedside commodes, and raised toilet seats, as well as other durable medical equipment that can be refurbished and loaned to community members in need.

Executors often face the challenge of clearing a home that contains wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, or other durable items. MERP provides a mission-driven alternative to disposal. The New Castle program accepts gently used medical equipment from families and community organizations. It also accepts certain unused supplies such as adult diapers, bed pads, and bandages. These donations reduce cleanup costs, prevent unnecessary waste, and give the estate a meaningful charitable path.

MERP’s goal is to improve community health and promote independent living. Donated equipment can serve many people over its lifespan. Estates that donate through the New Castle site support neighbors while honoring a loved one’s legacy with practical impact.

Executors in Lawrence County can contact MERP in New Castle to verify accepted items, donation guidelines, and drop-off details.