A CPAP device is a therapeutic device that offers continuous positive airway pressure, delivered to the patient via a mask placed over the nose while the patient is sleeping, according to the Mayo Clinic. CPAP equipment is commonly used to treat moderate to severe sleep apnea by helping keep airway passages open, preventing snoring and apnea. CPAP therapy helps many people with sleep apnea, but the equipment can be costly. If you have sleep apnea and your doctor thinks it may help, there are ways to get free CPAP equipment.

Awake in America is a national non profit organization based in Philadelphia, and it is set up to provide assistance for people with sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. The organization provides donated CPAP machines and other necessary equipment through programs like the Sleep Study Relief Program to people who need them but who do not have insurance or a way to pay for equipment. You can contact Awake in America through their website or by telephone. The organization also provides free information about sleep disorders and their treatment.

CPAP machines treat sleep apnea by providing continual airflow at constant, . (continuous positive airway pressure) machines treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).