While many in Kimberley are aware of the Health Care Auxiliary thrift shops, which fund the good works and donations to Kimberley’s medical needs from the dedicated Auxiliary volunteers, there is another service being provided that is every bit as vital.

Tucked into the lower level of the Kimberley Health Centre is the Kimberley Health Care Auxiliary Loan Cupboard.

Auxiliary member Heather MacKenzie says the Loan cupboard lends a wide range of medical equipment to support Kimberley residents in their recovery and rehabilitation at home.

“The coordinator Judy Caron works closely with Community Physiotherapists in choosing equipment to purchase.,” MacKenzie said. “The physios also use the Loan Cupboard to provide necessary equipment for the benefit of their clients. Judy commented that the Loan Cupboard is becoming increasingly well known, to the point where people anticipating hip or knee surgery come in with their list of required equipment, knowing they will be able to borrow it, with no charge, for three months, instead of purchasing.”

In addition to wheelchairs, canes, commodes, raised toilet seats, crutches, electric beds, overbed tables, airboot casts, bathbars, walkers and cushions, the Loan Cupboard has recently taken possession of donations from the now disbanded Hospice Society.

The Loan Cupboard has now added four air mattresses with to their inventory. These mattresses are filled with continuously circulating air, preventing bed sores, and making it unnecessary to turn the patient, greatly contributing to their comfort.

MacKenzie says volunteers are available to help set the air beds up.

The Loan Cupboard depends on community donations to raise funds to purchase equipment and is especially grateful for memorial donations. It will also accept used items, clean and in good condition. If you have something you would like to donate, it’s important to check first. This service is staffed entirely by volunteers-and anyone interesting in participating is urged to call 427-2887.

If you would like more information, call 250-427-2887. Hours of operation are 1 to 3 pm, Monday to Friday.