Luncheon to support purchase of equipment for treatment centres

St. Joseph’s Foundation says money raised from next Friday’s The Power of One Luncheon will be used to purchase fitness equipment, art therapy supplies, resource materials and new furnishings for the Sister Margaret Smith and Balmoral centres.

The goal is to raise at least $15,000, organizers said in a release.

“St. Joseph’s Foundation is proud to support the needs of St. Joseph’s Care Group,” said Foundation executive director Katrina O’Neill.

“While budgets are tight and demand is high, St. Joseph’s does what it can to fill the needs that aren’t currently funded. Those important extras, much-needed equipment, activities and special programming are supported through generous donations.

“To date our donors have been able to fund the purchase of needed furnishings and program equipment, but there is more to do.”

The withdrawal management program provides a safe haven for people to wean themselves off their addiction to drugs and alcohol, also offering a residential treatment option.

Clients thus must be kept busy during the day to help them recover.

“It’s essential that we have things for people to do. Keeping them active and engaged is an essential element to their recovery,” O’Neill said.

“Amongst our needs, our fitness equipment is outdated and needs to be replaced. It’s hard to explain how important this is to the clients we serve. It gives them an outlet that they really need.”

Those who can’t attend the May 29 event can donate by texting POWER to 3033 to make a $25 contribution.

“The amount will be charged directly to their cellular phone bill,” O’Neill said.

Tickets for the event are $75 apiece, or $600 for a table of eight.

They’re available at the Foundation, located at St. Joseph’s Heritage at 63 Carrie St. Or phone 768-4404 for more details.