Miracle-Ear of Butler has partnered with the Miracle-Ear Foundation to provide a Slippery Rock resident the gift of sound.

Richard Anderson, frustrated because he could not hear or understand anyone he encountered, reached out to the nationwide hearing solution franchise for an evaluation.

Hearing specialist Marleen Hoffmann confirmed Anderson needed hearing aids, but determined the cost was out of his reach. She suggested that he apply for assistance from the Miracle-Ear Foundation.

Anderson was approved and fitted with donated hearing aids as well as life-time aftercare.

In partnership with local franchisee Julie McKelvey and her staff, the Miracle-Ear Foundation, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit, supports underserved adults and children across the country with their hearing needs.

The foundation, working with Miracle-Ear centers across the country, has donated more than 21,000 hearing aids to more than 11,700 people nationwide, including Anderson.

“We know that hearing loss lowers the quality of life for adults at any age,” said McKelvey. “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 all 33 of our Miracle-Ear locations are happy to donate resources and time to enhance the lives of others,” she said.

The local Miracle-Ear franchise has supported adults and children in Butler for many years, providing hundreds of hearing aids to those in need.

“We’re proud to support better hearing in our community,” McKelvey said.

For more information, visit miracle-earfoundation.org.