The doors of Terrace's Canadian Red Cross Centre are always open to those seeking help, but this last Wednesday was a little different.

The centre on Greig avenue held their annual open-house, inviting community members to come and see the supports and services they provide.

For those who may know little about what the Canadian Red Cross has to offer, you may be surprised. Locally, the centre lends much needed equipment to those unable to purchase them.

The HELP program (Health Equipment Lending Program) offers things like:
crutches
walkers
canes
bathroom aids
wheelchairs
commodes
shoe horns
raised bathroom
reachers

"It's great, Red Cross is a very needed service," said Kelly Wafzig, a Red Cross volunteer.

The Canadian Red Cross subscribes to the same principals in 180 countries.

These being:
Humanity
Impartiality
Neutrality
Independence
Volunteer Service
Unity
Universality

Savannah Westgarde, Community Relations Coordinator, from the Prince George Office, talked about the role of the Canadian Red Cross around the world.

"I am very proud to work for the R.C. as we function in 180 countries around the world because of our principles," said Westgarde. "We can work anytime, anywhere and provide services to those most in need."

Westgarde, like her colleagues here in Terrace, was very enthusiastic when sharing their passion for helping people.

"Mobilizing the power of humanity," said Westgarde as she quoted part of the mission statement.

Another thing in need are volunteers for the Terrace location. Wafzig urged those who have free time to stop by the centre and sign up to help on Tuesday's and Friday's from 12pm-2pm.


Sponsors for the open house were; Terrace Best Western, PG Surg-Med, Cafenara and PB Auto.

For more info on the HELP program go to www.redcross.ca/help

For those in need of service or wanting to volunteer call, 635.3045