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Bennett Foundation Benefits Julian Community
By Bobbi Zane
Residents of the Julian community needing durable medical equipment such as walkers, shower seats,or toilet seat risers need look no further than the Bennett Foundation, which has been lending these items for more than 20 years.
The foundation has two storage lockers full of medical equipment donated by members of the community for this purpose. While the inventory varies, depending upon what’s currently in use, there’s usually a good selection of crutches, canes, potty chairs, wheelchairs, shower chairs, bathtub rail attachments, and even adult-size diapers, according to Kate Reese, who manages the medical equipment program for the foundation. Any Julian resident who has a short or long-term need for one of these items can make arrangements through Reese, call (760) 765-2766.
But the foundation does much more than serving as a source of medical equipment; It also provides flu vaccine for Julian senior citizens each fall. The vaccinations, available at the Julian Medical Clinic, are free, although a donation is requested.
Some funds raised through donations also are earmarked for scholarships awarded to graduating seniors pursuing careers in the ministry, health care or social services.
Reese explains. “Last year we had sufficient funds to award three scholarships.”
Providing service to the Julian community for more than 20 years, the foundation honors the late Sam and Gerta Bennett, who came to the area following Sam’s retirement from the Navy where he served as a chaplain. The couple was instrumental in building the United Methodist Church here, where Sam was the first pastor. They worked with needy Julian residents by providing food, clothing, medical and spiritual support. One of these projects was the senior lunch program, now managed by Vee Lumpkins.
Although, according to Reese,“unfortunately all of the old timers who started the organization are either deceased of have moved away,” the foundation continues to serve the community and still accepts donations. Contact Reese for more information.
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