Dear Editor:
I would like to respond to last week’s article with the headline “Lack of Volunteers Reason Red Cross Closed, Says Manager” by Keith Lacey, published in the August 8 edition of the Osoyoos Times.
On behalf of Canadian Red Cross and the many people who have benefited from our Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP), I wish to express my sincere thanks to our Osoyoos volunteers for their many years of service and dedication.
The Osoyoos HELP location has been consolidated with the newly-expanded location in Oliver as part of a larger strategy to expand the service, improve sustainability and strengthen the quality and availability of equipment across a broader area.
The expansion also includes the introduction of new technology in the form of a client contact centre, an enhanced inventory management system and centralized equipment cleaning and repair hubs.
Clients who are currently using our health equipment in Osoyoos can continue to return it to the Sonora Community Center until Aug. 15, 2012. As of Aug. 16, any health equipment should be returned to the HELP location in Oliver.
The HELP program is a volunteer-supported, community-based service and depends on the contribution of volunteers. Individuals wishing to volunteer are encouraged to apply.
We are committed to providing ongoing service and we look forward to welcoming you to the Oliver location at 6129 Kootenay St.
For more information, please contact the location at 250-498-6700, by fax at 250-498-6700 or visit the Red Cross website at www.redcross.ca/help.
Thank you for your consideration.
Peter Chau
Vice President
Southern Interior Regional Council
Canadian Red Cross
