How the Program Started
BSILS began informally. An occupational therapist working in Montana noticed a recurring problem during clinical practice: many clients needed mobility equipment that wasn’t readily available. At the same time, donated items kept appearing — walkers, wheelchairs, ramps and other devices were brought in by locals who wanted equipment from loved ones to go to better use. What began as an informal pass-through gradually became a more organized effort. Big Sky Independent Living Solutions was created to formalize that ad-hoc work, expand capacity, and make mobility equipment more reliably accessible to anyone in Montana who could benefit from it.
What BSILS is, and What it isn’t
BSILS is a donated equipment matching program. It accepts equipment donations from individuals, families, estates, and institutions; cleans and inspects donated equipment; and connects it with people who need it. Equipment is provided at no cost. BSILS is not a clinical service. It does not bill insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid; does not provide medical evaluations or prescriptions; and does not warrant that any given piece of equipment is appropriate for a specific medical use. When clinical evaluation is needed — for example, to fit a wheelchair properly or to plan a home modification — BSILS refers to licensed providers.
Where the Program is GoingBSILS is in active development. Near-term priorities include establishing formal nonprofit structure (likely through fiscal sponsorship in the short term, with eventual independent 501(c)(3) status), recruiting a board of directors, building out volunteer capacity, and developing referral relationships with healthcare providers and community organizations. The program is committed to growing in a measured way that doesn't outpace its ability to do the work well. If you represent an organization interested in partnering with BSILS, or if you'd like to support the program's development, please get in touch. We are happy to share program materials and have a conversation.
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