Grand Portage to host hearing health event
Access to healthcare resources is of great concern to many people living in underserved communities. Miracle Ear Foundation Director Jana Anderson told WTIP that the organization aims to help address the gap for those who otherwise could not afford hearing aids, or who otherwise lack access to hearing health resources.
Anderson said, “We were founded in 1990 and in that time, we have donated over 54,000 hearing aids to more than 28,000 children and adults all across America. And that’s for individuals who otherwise could not afford to purchase them.”
On Sep. 9 and 10, the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino events center will host a Miracle Ear Foundation event. It will include hearing tests, and provide up to 100 people with free hearing aids.
“The Miracle Ear Foundation hosts our miracle mission events two to three times a year,” Anderson said. “We look for communities where either there is a lack of hearing health care resources or access to hearing health care, or, you know, areas where maybe there’s large populations where there’s a great need for hearing assistance.”
Walk-ins are allowed during the event, though those interested are encouraged to register ahead of time to determine their eligibility. For those who do not apply in advance, they will need to bring proof of income to the event. Anderson said those with questions can also reach out by phone at 763-268-4278.
Anderson told WTIP that once eligible patients get hearing aids, they will also have access to after care. Miracle Ear Foundation will provide quarterly follow-ups in the area.
“One of the reasons that there is a need in this area is that oftentimes specialty care is is only available up to three hours away in Duluth,” Anderson said. “There is a need for these services, and that’s why we’ve decided to come up to Grand Portage and are committed to aftercare services as well.”
WTIP’s CJ Heithoff spoke with Miracle Ear Foundation Director Jana Anderson about the upcoming event in Grand Portage. Audio of that interview is below.
Kirsten Wisniewski September 1, 2025
