‘The backbone and heart’
More volunteers needed at Truro’s Red Cross
Help is never far away at the Canadian Red Cross in Truro.
The centre has remained busy throughout the pandemic. That would not be the case without community volunteers.
“They are absolutely essential. They are the backbone and heart,” of the site, said centre co-ordinator Raye Leier.
Consider this. All Red Cross programs in Truro were maintained throughout the pandemic, said Leier. In mid-March 2020 there was a brief shut down of the physical centre because of pandemic restrictions. In early May of that year some volunteers returned to the site, following special procedures and a controlled process (including pick up and drop off of loaned equipment) to make sure community needs were still being met.
That service has continued.
“That’s how dedicated the volunteers here are because it’s been a scary time,” said Leier.
“They typically take on the responsibility of face-to-face with clients, referrals for equipment, cleaning and dealing with stakeholders. They are making it as simple and smooth a transition for the client as possible.”
Leier said the public may take for granted just how vital the Red Cross is in the community. Of its various programs, one of the most used is the community Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP).
Leier says there are many reasons people rely on the temporary equipment loan. Some cannot be discharged from a hospital without equipment, others may require it going into a home palliative care situation while some must have it to recover safely at home after surgery.
Types of equipment available are transfer benches for the shower, walkers, canes and commodes, to name a few.
“Some people don’t know how to go about getting equipment,” said Leier. “It’s essential for people to know because if they didn’t have access to free equipment, they may not get it. We have it … for free.”
The equipment is available for a three-month loan and requires a referral from a certified health-care provider. All equipment goes through a special cleaning, sterilization and inspection process that was in place even before the pandemic. Pick up and return of equipment is also done with strict protocols for safety.
Having this service available not only assists with physical healing and wellbeing.
“It gives clients peace of mind, independence, a sense of security, confidence … it’s helps with their mental and emotional (health) and sense of dignity. And when someone gets moving, they are not as isolated,” said Leier.
Not only are residents blessed by the Red Cross, but its volunteers receive rewards as well, although not sought out.
“Volunteers can see they’re directly meeting a need. They see the volume of equipment (used) and they immediately understand they’re providing assistance to people in need. They feel they are a part of something bigger.”
Alex Ha volunteers with cleaning and maintenance. He says, “volunteering at the Red Cross helps me stay positive and happy during the pandemic.”
Adds Hal Humphries, front desk volunteer, “The fact we help so many people in our province is very rewarding. Also, working on the computer and the front desk keeps the old mind sharper.”
Lead volunteer Gloria Demers says, for her, it’s all about offering an important service.
“The reason I volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross is so I can help those folks that are in need of health equipment to be mobile and live an independent life. I don’t like seeing people in hospitals; if I can help by cleaning and checking equipment to bring someone out of the hospital that gives me great satisfaction.”
As of the end of December, there were about 15 volunteers at the Truro site and three paid staff. Since the pandemic about a half dozen new volunteers came forward, including students. But more help is required.
“New volunteers are needed,” stressed Leier. “We have some gaps now … at the front desk and with cleaning especially.”
Leier said anyone interested can go online at www. redcross.ca/volunteer for details. A few qualifications must be met “to ensure a good fit” said Leier and training is provided.