A $2,500 grant from District 26 Kenora of RTOERO is helping the Borrowing Cupboard to support its service of providing mobility aids and home health equipment for at no cost.

The Borrowing Cupboard (borrowingcupboard.ca) relies on donations from borrowers, community members and service organizations to fund its operating expenses. The District 26 funding is part of RTOERO’s annual Community Grants program. Districts apply for projects (education-related or other community initiatives) that support local programs. Up to $2,500 per project is available.

Since 1968, RTOERO has been a voice for those who work in and retire from the education sector. Our mission is to improve the lives of our members and seniors.

Many people in the community cannot afford equipment rental fees, and government subsidies for the purchase of mobility aids equipment can take six to nine months to fulfill. The Borrowing Cupboard offers a wide range of equipment at short notice, with no restrictions on the borrowing period. Demand is expected top rise as the community rebounds from COVID restrictions and we meet the pent-up demand for surgical services.

“The Borrowing Cupboard removes the barrier of financial constraints and provides a convenient option for community members to support their health, well-being and independence,” says Josie Groen, president, District 26 Kenora.

Each year, a committee of RTOERO members assesses the merits of each grant submission. For 2021, RTOERO funded 31 projects for a total of $79,885. Since the inception of the Community Grants program 21 years ago, RTOERO has donated $1.85 million to more than 525 programs and projects.

“RTOERO members care about their communities and serve them every day,” says Rich Prophet, the chair of the board at RTOERO. “The Community Grants program encourages all of our districts to support and partner with outside organizations, and to give back.”