(The Lending Cupboard website)

By Alessia Proietti and Sheldon Spackman

"Resilient like diamonds"

Tickets selling out fast for the Lending Cupboard’s 12th annual Ladies Luncheon

Apr 27, 2023 | 4:00 PM

“Resilient like diamonds” is the theme for the 12^th annual ladies luncheon by The Lending Cupboard (TLC).

Newly held at Red Deer Polytechnic’s (RDP) Cenovus Energy Learning Common, the event will take place on May 11 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., on the Thursday before Mother’s Day.

“Together, we’re stronger and we are resilient,” said Executive Director Lori Shatto. “It takes us all different journeys in our life and we all get there at different times in our life, but we all get to that beautiful space, just like a diamond is beautiful, and we’re resilient, just like that diamond is resilient.”

The luncheon will serve a catered high-tea alongside a fashion show with guest speaker Val Jensen, who has volunteered for various community initiatives, including the creation of the Red Deer PCN Fun Run. Raffle prizes will be available, with Shatto adding that one item was designed especially for the event.

Shatto says the luncheon is just one of their vital fundraising events that raise awareness for their services, support individuals in central Alberta with pieces of medical equipment and enables the registered charity to stay afloat with operational expenses.

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“This community is always so supportive of The Lending Cupboard and we couldn’t be there without our community,” she said. “No matter if that’s a financial donation, or if that’s sharing our social media or sharing the word about us, we really do appreciate that.”

Since 2006, TLC (1-7803 50 Ave) offers locals with over 15,000 pieces of free medical equipment and daily living aids. Shatto says that, like a library, individuals can borrow what they need for either a donation or by simply sharing their experience with others.

(Supplied)

She says clients have described feeling a sense of relief when using their services.

“When folks come to see us, they’re coming sometimes at their most vulnerable times. They may have been just told they have an illness, or they’re having surgery, or they could have just broken an ankle,” she says.

“Coming to us and being able to borrow a piece of equipment, knowing that it’s there but not having to go purchase it, is one less piece of stress that they have to deal with.”

Shatto adds that TLC has a remarkable group of staff and volunteers.

“Not only is it just that piece of equipment, it is also a place to come and have someone listen to you and to give that comfort and that support in a compassionate environment,” she said.

The luncheon is open for all women and while the goal is to sell 250 seats, Shatto says tickets are selling out fast. Tickets at $45 can be purchased online at TLC’s website, on the RDP website, or by calling 403-356-1678.