NEWS RELEASE
THE WAR AMPS
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This year marks the 75th anniversary of the War Amps key tag service. As this milestone year comes to an end, Audrey Donohue, 10, of Mount Albert, and her family are sharing how donations to the lost key return service have made a difference in her life.
Audrey was born a right arm amputee and, as a member of the War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, is eligible for financial assistance for artificial limbs and adaptive devices, as well as peer support.
“Audrey was fitted with a baseball device this year,” says mom Meghan. “The device allows her to hold the bat with two hands and swing with more strength and control. The support from The War Amps means that Audrey can take part in activities just like any other child.”
The key tag service was launched in 1946 so that returning war amputee veterans could not only work for competitive wages, but also provide a service to Canadians that would generate funds for the association’s many programs. The service continues to employ amputees and people with disabilities and has returned more than 1.5 million sets of lost keys to their owners.
Each key tag has a confidentially coded number. If you lose your keys, the finder can call the toll-free number on the back of the tag or place them in any mailbox in Canada, and The War Amps will return them to you by courier, free of charge.
The War Amps receives no government grants and its programs are possible through public support of the key tag and address label service.
“We’d like to thank the public for helping to make this service a success,” says spokesperson Rob Larman, himself a graduate of the CHAMP Program. “Your support funds essential programs for all amputees across Canada, including children and veterans.”
For more information, or to order key tags, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030.
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