Get to Know Us

The ReCARES Network is a small, local, community-oriented and environmental 501(c)3 non-profit in the Bay Area. We aim to decrease environmental waste and increase access to medical equipment and supplies in the community. 

Our History

The organization was founded in 1996, when Liisa Nenonen, an operating room nurse, was looking for environmentally sound solutions for the wise reuse of healthcare resources. Thanks to the support of the San Francisco Solid Waste Management Program and Alameda County Recycling Board, ReCARES began its operations to collect used durable medical equipment, assistive devices, and surplus home care supplies donated by families, hospitals, and assisted living facilities and to then distribute them to people in need.

Today

Nowadays, ReCARES serves a diverse population. Many of the people who benefit from our service are disabled people, caregivers, or senior adults who come to find the equipment and supplies to live safely and comfortably in their homes. ReCARES predominantly serves lower-income, BIPOC, and immigrant communities. With its current distribution sites in Oakland, San Francisco, and Marin County, ReCARES serves over 15,000 people a year and distributes more than 45,000 items ranging from wheelchairs to adult incontinence supplies and personal care items. Our dedicated volunteers support our work with over 5,400 hours of service annually. 

Since its foundation in 1996 up to date, ReCARES has consolidated as an essential community resource that provides safety and dignity for vulnerable elders, supports the independent living of disabled people, and eases the stress of families dealing with a loved one's health challenges.