CFLSA

"We've been feeling a lot like Old Mother Hubbard's cupboard, as increasing demand has outstripped the resources in our medical equipment loan program," said Gary Cook, Manager at the Canadian Red Cross in Lethbridge. "We've had waiting lists of people needing to borrow wheelchairs."

A grant from the Foundation has added 16 new wheelchairs to the Red Cross's cupboard. Costing up to $450 each, wheelchairs are expensive yet integral to the service. The new chairs are being loaned as fast as they are returned. "Having a wheelchair makes convalescence much easier for clients and their families," says Gary. "The new equipment has greatly increased our capacity to meet the needs of clients."

According to Gary, "Interest in the Red Cross's loan program has exploded, with huge increases in need each year."

In 2001-2002, 970 clients from across Southern Alberta borrowed 1,628 pieces of equipment that ranged from wheelchairs and walkers to bath seats and commodes, nearly a 20% increase in demand over the year before. The short-term loans are available to people of all ages who are recovering from surgery, illness or injury.

The Red Cross serves the same broad region of Southern Alberta as the Foundation. Says Gary, "We appreciate the support from the Foundation, whose mandate — to help as many people as possible — fits well with our similar interests and desires."

From LCF Report to the Community 2002.

There When You Need It