The War Amps 2016 Key Tags are being mailed to B.C. residents this week, and the service marks 70 years of returning lost keys to their owners. Donations to the Key Tag Service assist members of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, including Cooper Bauer, 4, of Elkford.
Cooper was born a partial left hand amputee and has received financial assistance for the cost of artificial limbs and recreational devices. Growing up, he has also attended regional CHAMP seminars where Champs and parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and bullying and parenting an amputee child.
“The seminars have been a great resource for us and have instilled a positive attitude in Cooper. We know that with the help of CHAMP, he will accomplish anything he sets his mind to,” said his mom, Rebecca.
The War Amps Key Tag Service was launched in 1946 so that returning war amputees could not only work for competitive wages, but also provide a service to Canadians that would generate funds for the Association. The Key Tag Service continues to employ amputees and people with disabilities.
Each key tag has a confidentially coded number. Should the keys be lost, the finder can call the toll-free number on the back of the tag, or deposit them in any mailbox, and the keys will be returned to the owner by bonded courier.
“Thanks to the public’s support of the Key Tag Service, young amputees like Cooper are able to live full and active lives,” said Danita Chisholm, Executive Director of the CHAMP Program.
The War Amps receives no government grants and its programs are possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service.