Nanaimo Child Development Centre is teaming with a number of social service agencies to ensure children with developmental needs can gain access to specialized equipment.
In a press release, Nanaimo Child Development said it is partnering with Island Mediquip, Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island and a number of social service agencies for a therapeutic equipment loan program or Vancouver Island Therapeutic Equipment Loan Library.
The need for this has been known for quite some time, said the press release, and Nanaimo Child Development Centre was given the lead role to develop the library. The intention is to continue to grow the collection of equipment via ongoing grants, funding and donations of gently-used equipment.
The library will offer timely access to specialized equipment needed for therapy and daily activities, said the press release, and will include large pieces intended to assist movement, mobility and positioning aids, adapted therapy toys and adapted furniture. It will be used by children who don’t have access to funding, the press release said.
Access to the equipment can make all the difference in the world for children with physical limitations interact with their environment, said the press release.
Veronica Carroll, Children’s Health Foundation CEO, said in the release that 1,470 children and youths are supported by similar equipment libraries. The new service will be beneficial, she said.
“The library will provide greater access to specialized equipment for mobility, safety, and communications that will give Island kids the support they need to develop skills and to join in play with their family and friends,” Carroll said.
The community social service agencies that are also taking part are, Clements Centre Society (Duncan), Sources Oceanside Resource Centre (Parksville), Outreach Therapy (Port Alberni), Campbell River and District Association for Community Living, and North Island Crisis and Counselling Centre Society (Port Hardy), stated the press release.
READ ALSO: Smashed pumpkins part of NCDC fundraiser
reporter@nanaimobulletin.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter