A Butler area resident recently received free donated hearing aids from the Miracle-Ear Foundation.

Bonnie Dupe, who struggled with hearing loss for many years, went to the Miracle-Ear office in Butler because her old hearing aids weren’t meeting her needs.

An evaluation determined Dupe needed new hearing aids, but she could not afford the cost. Hearing specialist Marleen Hoffman, who conducted the evaluation, suggested she apply for assistance from the Miracle-Ear Foundation.

Dupe reached out and was approved. She was fitted with donated hearing aids and will receive lifetime aftercare.

The Miracle-Ear Foundation has donated more than 10,000 hearing aids to over 6,000 individuals nationwide, the organization said in a news release.

“We know that hearing loss lowers the quality of life for adults at any age,” said Julia Beall-McKelvey of the foundation. “When hearing loss goes undetected, it can lead to social isolation, strained relationships, and can even impact earning potential. That is why the staff at our Miracle-Ear locations has made the commitment to support the Miracle-Ear Foundation and will begin to donate resources and time to enhance the lives of others within our community.”