LEWISTON — Colin Smith of Lewiston will receive free hearing aids through the Beltone Hearing Care Foundation.

The nonprofit foundation donates hearing aids to those in need who do not have access to them. Both individuals and organizations are eligible to receive assistance from the foundation through direct nominations.

Smith has experienced great hearing loss, especially when he speaks to people on the telephone. He’s also had significant health issues due to a car accident which occurred when he was 18 years old. His inability to communicate properly could possibly put him into a dangerous situation in an emergency.

He is a people person, very happy-go-lucky and enjoys the company of others, which has become difficult since he can’t hear properly. He’s also been isolating himself from people due to his hearing loss.

Unfortunately, Smith does not have the financial means to afford new hearing aids while in desperate need of them.

Smith’s local Beltone Hearing Center applied to the Beltone Hearing Foundation. Almost instantly, he was approved and will be fitted with new hearing aids.

“I am eternally grateful for what Beltone has done for me,” Smith said. “Their generosity is beyond belief and I will never forget their wonderful and kind act as long as I live. It’s a dream come true.”