WAUKESHA, Wis. — Thousands of families across Wisconsin are finding support through Katy’s Kloset, a medical equipment lending library based in Waukesha.
Run by the nonprofit Team Up with Families, the organization provides wheelchairs, feeding tubes and other critical medical supplies at no cost to those who need them.
For Julie Chaloupka, Katy’s Kloset was more than just a resource — it was a lifeline. Her daughter, Jennifer, had a form of muscular dystrophy, and the family often struggled to obtain the supplies she needed.
“We needed suction supplies, and the insurance company would only pay for so many a month,” Chaloupka recalled. “I only had 10 left, and I came to Katy’s Kloset. It was like a burden was lifted because I didn’t know what we were going to do.”
Chaloupka visited Katy’s Kloset monthly, picking up essential items like feeding tubes and formula. The support she received was invaluable. Wanting to give back, she ended up volunteering with Katy’s Kloset for six years.
Executive Director Rose Hebar said Katy’s Kloset serves as both a donation center and a lending library for used medical equipment and supplies.
“We are a resource for the community as a place to donate used medical equipment and supplies. We bring it all in, clean it, sort it, catalog it and then distribute it to people who need it,” Hebar said.
Last year alone, the organization helped nearly 5,000 families across Wisconsin. A typical Saturday at Katy’s Kloset involves fulfilling at least 100 orders, with 15 cars scheduled for pickup every 15 minutes. Borrowed equipment may be kept for as long as needed.
“What are you supposed to do if the chair you depend on is not functioning? It broke, it was stolen, or in some cases, it got hit by a car,” said Hebar.
Around 100 volunteers are at Katy’s Kloset on a weekly basis. Beyond Wisconsin, Katy’s Kloset extends its help worldwide. The organization donates a large amount of medical equipment overseas, reaching more than 40 countries.
For families like Chaloupka’s, Katy’s Kloset has been a critical resource and a testament to the power of community support.
If you or someone you know is in need of medical equipment, or if you’d like to donate or volunteer, click here.