Each spring, community volunteers from across Saskatchewan step forward to help raise funds and awareness for a growing Canadian health crisis, said a release from the Canadian Diabetes Association.
Diabetes is at epidemic proportions here in Canada, with an estimated 3.5 million Canadians diagnosed including more than 97,000 people in Saskatchewan, it said. Support for the Canadian Diabetes Association’s (CDA) door-to-door campaign can make a difference in the lives of those living with or at risk of developing diabetes.
A representative of the CDA will be in Kamsack between May 1 and 15 conducting a door-to-door canvass, said the release.
“The residential campaign has long been an important part of fundraising for the Canadian Diabetes Association,” said Allison Luff, community engagement co-ordinator for the South Saskatchewan branch of the CDA. “The people of Saskatchewan make an impressive effort when it comes to fundraising. It is always inspiring to see them come out to support those living with or affected by this disease.”
In Saskatchewan, approximately 1,800 volunteers will hit the streets for this year’s spring campaign, which runs from May 1 to 15, the release said. Volunteer canvassers will be clearly identified via buttons and lanyards and will display red CDA canvassing kits. They will be able to issue temporary tax receipts at the door (official receipts will follow) and provide information about the CDA.
Proceeds raised from this campaign will fund leading-edge diabetes research and innovative educational programs in Saskatchewan, it said. Proceeds are additionally used to help send local children with Type one diabetes to the Saskatchewan Children’s Camp, which is part of a national program called the CDA’s D-Camps. CDA is the only national organization to operate camps for children living with Type one diabetes in the country. D-Camps provide children living with Type one diabetes, an authentic and exciting camp experience where they also take steps to becoming independent in managing their diabetes. For many campers, D-Camps are the only place where they spend time with other children living with Type one diabetes. Parents also have peace of mind knowing that their children are monitored by a dedicated team of trained medical professionals who are available around the clock. This team includes doctors, nurses and dietitians. The team works closely with the campers and counsellors, many of whom also have Type one diabetes, to provide the highest level of diabetes care.
Persons wishing more information on how to get involved as a volunteer or donate may contact Allison Luff at allison.luff@diabetes.ca.
The CDA is the registered national charity that helps the 11 million Canadians with diabetes or prediabetes live healthy lives, and educates those at risk, it said. In communities across Canada, the CDA: offers a wide array of support services to members of the public;
offers resources to health-care professionals on best practices to care for people with diabetes;
advocates to governments, schools, workplaces and others on behalf of people with diabetes; and funds research on better treatments and to find a cure.
