The Community Loan Cupboard may not be a service most islanders are aware of but if you ever find yourself in need of medical equipment, this service can save you money. Patients returning home early from hospital stays because of illness, injury or surgeries may require certain equipment to provide comfort, mobility and independence while they recuperate. Items such as raised toilet seats, wheelchairs, commodes, walkers, crutches, canes and bed rails are all available on loan. All this equipment has been previously gifted by individuals that no longer need them. It is professionally inspected, clean and in good shape.
Local residents can borrow these items at no cost for a maximum of three months on a first come first serve basis. A donation is welcomed and all money collected goes into an account for any future repairs or replacement parts on the current inventory. The volunteers who run this service do the best they can to accommodate any special requests that come their way, but if any of these items become a permanent necessity for people, then purchasing them is recommended.
Dolores Wallace started this community service out of her house. After many years living on Bowen, Wallace sold her home to Adrienne Lawson who graciously took over the service and has been running it ever since.
Lawson has decided to move back to Toronto and is currently looking to pass this service along to the next person or organization. If anyone is in need of medical equipment or can assist in taking this great service on please call the loan cupboard at 604 946 2433.
