Bill Foreman of Canora has been a great volunteer for the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) for many years and is very enthusiastic about working in the annual residential door-to-door canvass, which is taking place May 1-15 this year, says Allison Luff, community engagement coordinator for the South Saskatchewan branch of the CDA.
Each spring, he is one of the 1,800 community volunteers who steps forwards to help raise funds and awareness for a growing Canadian health crisis. In each community where a canvass is held, only local volunteers are registered. Volunteer canvassers are clearly identified via buttons and lanyards and 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.
All of the money collected goes towards research, preventative measures and ultimately to find a cure for diabetes.
Diabetes is at epidemic proportions here in Canada, with an estimated 3.5 million Canadians diagnosed, including more than 97,000 people in Saskatchewan, Luff 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.
The residential campaign has long been an important part of fundraising for the Canadian Diabetes Association,” she said. “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 addition to funding leading-edge diabetes research and innovative educational programs in Saskatchewan, proceeds are additionally used to help send local children with type 1 diabetes to the Saskatchewan Children’s Camp, which is part of a national program called the CDA’s D-Camps, said Luff. CDA is the only national organization to operate camps for children living with type 1 diabetes in the country.
D-Camps provide children living with type 1 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 1 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 1 diabetes, to provide the highest level of diabetes care.
About the CDA
The CDA is a registered national charity that helps the 11 million Canadians with diabetes or prediabetes live healthy lives, and educates those at risk. 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.
