Tabs for Wheelchairs hits 40-donation milestone

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This article was published 07/06/2021 (1779 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

After nearly 25 years, Gwen Buccini continues to spearhead her Tabs for Wheelchairs campaign— one tab at a time.

Buccini is the co-ordinator of the annual fundraising campaign, which essentially involves collecting tabs from drink cans to raise money for specialized wheelchairs for youngsters.   

The initiative started in 1998 at Holy Cross School, where Buccini was a teacher, and it has continued to grow and garner donations from numerous schools, organizations and companies, as well as countless individuals across Winnipeg and Manitoba. Since her retirement, Buccini has continued to dedicate her time to the cause.

Seven schools took part in Tabs for Wheelchairs during its inaugural year, and the program is currently involved with more than 150 schools, and nearly 250 companies and groups. Now in its 23rd year, the campaign has donated 24 specialized wheelchairs using funds raised by the tab collections and monetary donations, as well as 16 extra wheelchairs and a vehicle wheelchair lift owing to the generosity of anonymous donors.

Buccini, who lives in St. Vital, said she’s thrilled about reaching the milestone of 40 wheelchair donations.

“It truly is a testament to the tireless dedication of the Tabs for Wheelchairs community that we have been able to achieve the milestone,” Buccini said.

“We very much appreciate all those who have been part of this program; their efforts have made a monumental difference in the lives of these individuals and their families.”

The latest recipient set to benefit from a specialized wheelchair is seven-year-old Catie, who attends Earl Oxford School in Brandon, Man. According to Buccini, at 10 months old Catie was diagnosed with hemiplegia, a type of cerebral palsy. She was later re-diagnosed with spastic quadriplegia, which affects all four of her limbs to some degree.

“Catie is an eternal optimist who is always seeking out the good in life. She is quick to say hello and make new friends, and even quicker to offer compliments and encouragement. It is impossible not to be inspired by her positive attitude and sweet smile,” Buccini said, adding Catie is excited about receiving her power wheelchair.

At press time, tabs could be dropped off at a number of locations. These include two Trailblazers Life Choices locations — at 1069 Autumnwood Dr. in Winnipeg, and B-197 Main St. in Steinbach. Both locations are open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Due to COVID-restrictions, prospective donors are asked to drop their tabs in the blue recycling bins outside of the front doors, and not to go into either building.

Individuals can also bring their tabs, cans or any metal to Western Scrap Metal, which is located at 18 Sutherland Ave. in Winnipeg, and Western Salvage, which is located at 855 49th St. East in Brandon. In both cases, mention the donation is for Tabs for Wheelchairs, and the businesses will credit the campaign’s account.

This year’s deadline for delivering tabs is Sept. 24.

Email Buccini at tabsforwheelchairs@hotmail.com for more information.