For many people experiencing hearing loss, the use of a hearing aid device can make a significant difference in their day-to-day lives. But for those without health benefits or who do not have the funds to purchase a new device, the solution is not always so simple.

That’s where Lend an Ear comes in. The Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility (operating name for Western Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, a registered charitable organization) has been providing the gift of hearing to hundreds of low-income families for over 20 years through this incredible program. Lend an Ear provides permanent loans of refurbished hearing aids for those who can’t afford new ones. For a nominal fee of $140, the program participant will receive a hearing test, a permanent loan of a hearing aid, an earmold, and one year of repairs.

The Pacific Blue Cross Health Foundation recently donated $20,000 to help expand the program. The Foundation’s donation will be used to double the number of available services, satisfying a growing need and cutting the average wait time for a refurbished hearing aid in half.

“We are proud to support the Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility’s Lend an Ear program, which provides vital care to community members in need.” says Jim Iker, Chair, Pacific Blue Cross Health Foundation Board. “The important work they are doing will have a truly positive impact on the health and wellbeing of many British Columbians for years to come.”

The Pacific Blue Cross Health Foundation supports organizations throughout BC that are improving outcomes in the areas of chronic disease and mental health.