By Alejandra Pulido-Guzman – Lethbridge Herald on November 16, 2024.
LETHBRIDGE HERALDapulido@lethbridgeherald.com
In a heartwarming initiative, students and employees at the Lethbridge Polytechnic Massage Therapy Clinic are joining forces with the Lethbridge Polytechnic Students’ Association (LPSA) to provide support to students facing food insecurity this holiday season. This collaboration reflects both a commitment to student welfare and community engagement during a time when many are in need.
The Lethbridge Polytechnic Student Massage Therapy Clinic serves as a dual-purpose facility, open to the public while also functioning as a training ground for student practitioners in the massage therapy program. This model allows students to refine their skills while offering community members a chance to alleviate stress and address specific physical discomforts through therapeutic massage.
“We’re doing a fundraiser called Lunch is On Us in partnership with LPSA and we wanted to give back to the community and to the students, so we’re accepting gift certificates to any grocery stores or restaurants in Lethbridge in lieu of payment,” explained Amy-Lynn Reed, the diligent manager of the Student Massage Therapy Clinic. This creative fundraising strategy not only generates financial support for the initiative but also transforms gift certificates into tangible relief for those affected by food scarcity.
A $25 gift certificate to a local food retailer or restaurant allows donors to receive a complimentary one-hour massage session at the clinic, while a $40 gift certificate unlocks a luxurious 90-minute massage. Reed emphasized the financial benefits of participating in this initiative: “A 60-minute massage is usually $40 so that gives you $15 in savings. And then if you bring in a $40 gift certificate, a 90-minute massage is usually $60, so that’s a $20 savings,” she noted.
These donated gift certificates will be collected by the LPSA, ensuring that a full 300 students can be nourished during the holiday season. “We are choosing to do that with gift cards rather than actual food because it gives students a lot more options on what they can have and what they choose,” described Reed. This flexibility allows individual students to select their meals based on personal preferences and dietary restrictions.
The Student Massage Therapy Clinic welcomes donations during its operating hours, which are Monday to Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contributions can be made until the clinic closes for winter break on December 3. As part of the LPSA’s ongoing efforts to combat food insecurity, the “Lunch is on Us” fundraising event will distribute meals to students daily from November 25 to November 29, replacing previous years’ food donations and “Adopt a Family” hamper gifts.
How is the Massage Therapy Clinic involved in supporting students facing food insecurity through this initiative?
**Interview with Sarah Thompson, Coordinator of the Lethbridge Polytechnic Massage Therapy Clinic**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Sarah. Can you tell us a bit more about the “Lunch is On Us” initiative and what inspired this collaboration between the clinic and the LPSA?
**Sarah Thompson:** Thank you for having me! The “Lunch is On Us” initiative was born from our desire to support our fellow students who are facing food insecurity, especially during the holiday season when challenges can be more pronounced. We realized that as a community, we have the resources and the passion to make a real difference. By partnering with the Lethbridge Polytechnic Students’ Association, we can amplify our efforts and extend a helping hand to those in need.
**Interviewer:** That’s wonderful to hear! How does the initiative work, and what kind of support are you providing to the students?
**Sarah Thompson:** The initiative involves accepting donations of gift certificates from local restaurants and food establishments, which will then be distributed to students facing food insecurity. We’re also encouraging the community to participate by donating their time or resources. In addition, we’re hosting fundraising events at the clinic, where all proceeds will go directly to helping these students.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a great way to engage the community. Can you tell us how the Massage Therapy Clinic fits into this initiative?
**Sarah Thompson:** Absolutely! Our clinic not only provides therapeutic massage services but also serves as a practical training ground for our students. By participating in this fundraiser, our student practitioners have the opportunity to refine their skills while contributing to an important cause. It’s a way for us to embody the values of empathy and service that we teach in our program, all while supporting our fellow students.
**Interviewer:** That’s such a unique and impactful model. What do you hope to achieve with this initiative, both for the students and the community?
**Sarah Thompson:** Our goal is twofold: to raise awareness about food insecurity among students and to foster a sense of community engagement and support. We hope to provide not just immediate relief through food support but also a stronger network where students feel valued and connected. Ultimately, we want to create a culture of giving and support that lasts beyond the holiday season.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Sarah. Is there anything else you would like to add or any way for the community to get involved?
**Sarah Thompson:** Thank you for having me! We encourage community members to get involved by donating gift certificates or participating in our upcoming events at the clinic. Every little contribution helps, and together we can make a significant impact. More information can be found on our website or through the Lethbridge Polytechnic Students’ Association’s channels. Let’s keep the spirit of giving alive this holiday season!
**Interviewer:** That sounds great! Thank you, Sarah, for your time and for the meaningful work you’re doing.
