BURNABY - To mark World Red Cross Day, the B.C. government has provided the Canadian Red Cross with a $2-million, one-time grant for their Medical Equipment Loan Service, enhancing British Columbians' access to mobility aids and devices, announced Claude Richmond, Minister of Employment and Income Assistance.

"Our government is committed to building the best system of support in Canada for persons with disabilities - including those with both short and long-term impairments," said Richmond. "People of all ages, from children to seniors, suffer injuries or illnesses that impact their independence and mobility. We know the cost of purchasing or renting mobility aids or devices can be a financial burden. This is why our government is proud to partner with the Canadian Red Cross to help people obtain short-term assistance, at no charge, in their time of need."

The Canadian Red Cross operates its Medical Equipment Loan Service at 100 locations throughout the province. The program offers short-term loans of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and bathroom aids to help those recovering from illnesses, injuries, surgeries or living with disabilities. Older British Columbians and those who are considered to be low income earners are most likely to use the program.

"The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to have the B.C. government on board as a funding partner for this important program," said Fiona Lewis, manager of the Red Cross's Health Equipment Loan Program. "This $2-million grant represents a significant contribution. It will allow us to purchase more equipment and expand service delivery. Thanks to the hard work of volunteers and the donation, each piece of equipment we acquire will help out 10 to 20 people over its lifetime."

In 2006, more than 120,000 mobility aids and devices were loaned to approximately 68,000 British Columbians. In order to borrow equipment, a referral from a health-care professional is required. While the program lends the equipment at no charge, the Red Cross relies on financial contributions and the donation of medical equipment to operate the program.

The grant provided to the Red Cross supports a key component of British Columbia's citizen-centred Disability Strategy - improving service delivery for assistive aids and devices. The Disability Strategy is part of the B.C. government's annual $4-billion investment in disability programs.

In order to enhance easy access to the many programs, supports and devices available to British Columbians with physical challenges, the Province recently launched the toll-free Personal Supports Information Line. Callers can talk to call agents and have their specific questions answered by calling 1-888-818-1211. For people who use TTYs, the number is 1-800-661-8773.

British Columbians who are interested in using the Medical Equipment Loan Service or wish to volunteer can call their local Red Cross office or visit www.redcross.ca to find the Health Equipment Loan Programs webpage.