www.abnwtlegion.com 21 It is believed that Poliomyelitis has been eradicated in Canada, which is primarily true, but even though the first effective vaccine was developed in 1955, like many viruses, it can reappear at any time. Today, we still see the debilitating effects of this disease, which struck several decades ago, worsen over time. The Alberta Chapter of the Canadian Foundation for Poliomyelitis and Rehabilitation was sponsored by the Alberta Command of The Royal Canadian Legion in 1953 and was registered as a Society on May 25, 1961. At that time, the Directors consisted of members of the Executive Committee of the Command. Currently, the Senior Executive Committee of the Alberta-NWT Command continues the tradition of sitting on the Board of Directors of the Foundation. Command Service Officers are the point of first contact. They assist clients with completing financial needs forms and request the appropriate documentation from medical professionals before applications for funds are submitted to the Board. Whenever possible and appropriate, cost sharing with other agencies is examined. Our clients range in age from 40 years and up. We still find new clients with referrals coming from medical professionals, family and current clients. Our client list continues to evolve with some individuals not requiring assistance for many years, while others continue to need on-going support. Many of the individuals we assist live on government subsidies, which puts them below the poverty line. These clients are provided with special monthly assistance grants to help them with necessities, over and above the special equipment they need. Over time, the effects of the disease worsen and their need for more and costly equipment increases. We strive to help individuals remain active in their communities. We fund this Charitable Foundation three (3) ways. A percentage from the sale of pull tickets is allocated to the Foundation. The second form of funding comes directly from an annual casino. The final source of revenue comes from donations, primarily from Ladies Auxiliaries. It is imperative that we continue to honour our commitment assisting individuals who suffer from Post Poliomyelitis. Branches are encouraged to include the Foundation when donating gaming funds to charities. If you are interested in donating, please make your cheque payable to the Polio Foundation, Alberta Chapter and mail it to our office at 2020 – 15 Street NW Calgary, AB T2M 3N8. Calgary Office 2020 – 15 Street NW Calgary, AB T2M 3N8 P: 403-284-1161 Edmonton Office #102, 10471 – 178 Street NW Edmonton, AB T5S 1R5 P: 780-448-4982 office@abnwtlegion.com
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