The Upper Valley Health Closet began more than 40 years ago as a Lions Club service project led by Harry Armstrong and members of the Canaan Lions Club. The goal was simple and practical: collect used medical equipment and deliver it to people in the Upper Valley who needed help.

 

In 2020, John Bayliss of the Hanover Lions Club joined the effort. For several years, Harry, John, and a small group of dedicated volunteers met a growing regional need by lending equipment, making deliveries, and keeping the service available to thousands of community members.

 

The impact of the Health Closet was recognized in the Congressional Record in December 2022, when Harry and John were honored as Granite Staters of the Month for their dedication, initiative, and generosity.

 

As demand continued to grow, community leaders and partner organizations came together in late 2025 to help create a more sustainable future for the program. The Health Closet moved to its current location at 2 Mascoma Street in downtown Lebanon while continuing to serve the community without interruption.

 

In 2026, the NH Upper Valley Health Closet Lions Club was formed as a specialty Lions Club dedicated to sustaining and operating the Health Closet. Its purpose is to provide access to medical equipment, regardless of ability to pay, so people can recover with dignity, live safely, and remain independent.

 

Today, the Upper Valley Health Closet continues to grow from its volunteer roots, supported by neighbors, donors, partner organizations, and Lions Club members committed to serving the Upper Valley.