(Giving Tuesday Canada)

By Ian Gustafson

Helping COMMUNITY

Central Alberta organizations prepare for Giving Tuesday

Nov 28, 2024 | 3:42 PM

Several local organizations are taking part in Giving Tuesday festivities this Dec. 3.

Giving Tuesday is a national movement for folks to give back to their communities, be it through monetary donations, volunteering, or whichever way they choose.

Among those taking part is The Lending Cupboard Society of Alberta, which is hosting an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their north Red Deer location. The public is invited to meet the team, tour the facility, and discover ways they too can make an impact.

“Come see what The Lending Cupboard is about, see the equipment that we lend out to folks free of charge, and have conversations with our volunteers and staff about what makes them give back to their community,” said Executive director Lori Shatto, noting they’ll also have treat on hand.

“It’s also a way for people to come in and do their end of year giving.”

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The Lending Cupboard is a registered charity that’s served central Alberta since 2006 and is based in Red Deer.

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With over 90 volunteers and staff, they served over 13,000 people last year by giving out medical equipment for free to those who need it. Items include crutches, wheelchairs, bath lifts, and much more.

The loan is meant to be short-term, but Shatto said if people need the equipment for longer than three months, they’ll work with you to find a solution.

To donate, the public can head to the open house or visit their website, lendingcupboard.ca. There is also an option to e-transfer donations to TLCdonate@lendingcupboard.ca. If you’d rather volunteer, submit an application through the website.

Starting in 2025, The Lending Cupboard will be open Monday to Friday from 9-4:30.

Elsewhere, the Mustard Seed is asking for help in reaching their goal of providing 185,000 meals to those in need in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Donations made on Giving Tuesday will be matched until midnight thanks to the Arnie J. Charbonneau Foundation.

“Every day, we are seeing an increase in the number of people accessing our services,” said Laura Giesbrecht, senior director of food services.

“This Giving Tuesday, your donation will allow us to keep serving warm and nutritious meals, as well as providing safe spaces for those in need this winter. Thank you for helping us build community and grow hope in Red Deer.”

Also, at Maverick’s Donuts in Red Deer, for every sprinkle donut sold at regular price on Tuesday, 50 per cent will be donated to United Way Central Alberta. Pre-orders can be sent directly to rhyean@caunitedway.ca.

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At Aspire Child Development Centre, every donation made to the organization on Tuesday will be matched by one of their generous donors, Lyle Kallis, up to $15,000.

To donate, visit their website to fill out an online form.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Alberta is hoping to raise $200,000 on Tuesday.

The Crist Family Foundation has committed to RMHC to match all donations up until Tuesday up to $100,000. All money donated will go towards helping take the burden off families who have to leave home for medical treatments.

Those interested in helping can donate on their website.

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READ MORE

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Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is focusing on raising funds for its student scholarships.

RDP officials say these scholarships provide financial relief to students, allowing them to focus on their studies and pursue their goals without overwhelming financial stress.

Samantha Shortt, a bachelor of education student in her third year, commented on how scholarships have impacted her experience.

“I am so thankful to receive scholarships during my journey at Red Deer Polytechnic,” she said. “Completing a degree can feel daunting, especially when you acknowledge your lack of personal funding. Not only have scholarships helped me financially, but they have empowered me to work harder within my studies.”

Those interested in donating are encouraged to visit RDP’s website for more information.