Recycle vapes and medical equipment at CHaRM: what changes mean

CHaRM, a nonprofit materials recovery center in DeKalb, has started accepting medical equipment and will begin taking vapes on Oct. 1, under a new partnership with Live Thrive and Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC). The effort aims to give equipment a second life and reduce waste that would otherwise go to landfills. This explainer outlines what is changing, who it affects, and practical steps for residents and organizations.

What changed

CHaRM is expanding its acceptance criteria. It will now accept medical equipment such as shower chairs, wheelchairs, walkers, and children’s adaptive equipment, and will begin accepting vapes on Oct. 1. The partnership involves Live Thrive and FODAC to help refurbish or reallocate donated items. Items that previously could not be recycled or donated are now being directed toward reuse rather than landfill disposal.

Who is affected

Residents and families who have medical equipment or used vapes can drop them off at CHaRM in DeKalb for potential reuse. Organizations that manage or distribute assistive devices may also benefit by having a local outlet to donate surplus or outdated equipment. The arrangement supports people who need affordable equipment and reduces environmental waste from discarded items.

Practical next steps

If you have medical equipment to donate: check CHaRM’s intake guidelines (availability may vary by item type). Bring items in good condition, with any parts intact. For vapes: plan to drop them off after Oct. 1 when CHaRM begins accepting them; verify any safety or regulatory requirements for vape disposal locally. For organizations: coordinate with CHaRM and FODAC to arrange pickups or bulk donations, if available. Consider labeling items to indicate intended reuse to help staff sort donations efficiently.

Limits and questions

Details about exactly which models or brands are accepted, the condition standards, and any fees are still being clarified by CHaRM and its partners. If you need certainty on whether a specific item qualifies, contact CHaRM or the partner organizations before preparing a drop-off. This explainer uses the source reporting to describe the change and does not speculate beyond what is documented.

Information and responsibility notice: This article is general information based on the cited material available when published. It is not legal, tax, immigration, medical, financial, banking, or investment advice; it does not create a professional-client relationship; and it is not a guarantee of outcome, availability, accuracy, or eligibility. Rules, schedules, prices, and third-party information can change. Confirm material decisions with the relevant authority and an appropriately qualified adviser before acting.