(May 31, 2016) - If you are in need of a wheelchair temporarily, do you know where you can borrow one? Burlington residents can now contact Burlington Community Services to borrow one of two wheelchairs, thanks to a $350 grant from the Burlington Community Fund at Main Street Community Foundation.

“We have been approached by many people who have immediate and short-term needs,” said Ellie Parente, Director of Finance and Social Services for the Town of Burlington. “Any resident in Burlington can borrow the wheelchairs for a day, weekend or as long as two to three months, depending on the need.”

A wheelchair is not just a piece of medical equipment, it can often be essential to accomplish one’s daily living activities. Residents may require a wheelchair for reasons such as recovering from an accident or injury; the inability to walk long distances but the want or need to attend an event or appointment; and fluctuation of long-term health conditions.

“We are so grateful of the ongoing support from the Main Street Community Foundation and the Burlington Community Fund to the needs of the residents of Burlington,” stated Ted Shafer, First Selectman of Burlington. “These wheelchairs will help our growing elderly community and those with emergency needs.”

The grant was awarded during a small ceremony in May at Burlington Community Services. Janet Schwartz of the Burlington Community Fund Advisory Council, along with Jarre Betts, Vice President of Programs at the Community Foundation, presented the grant to Ellie Parente, Town of Burlington.

The Burlington Community Fund was founded in 2011 by a group of committed community leaders in Burlingtonto create an endowment fund to support charitable projects and programs that will enhance the quality of life for their neighbors.   

To inquire about borrowing a wheelchair, contact Ellie Parente at the Town of Burlington at 860.673.6789 ext. 208.