The local branch of the Croatian Red Cross in Županja has joined the 'Solidarity in Action' collection, which traditionally begins on the second Thursday of October. The campaign will take place in the Županja county area until mid-November.
The funds raised will be used to purchase additional orthopaedic, hospital, and other aids for the lending library. The plan is to raise between 17,000 and 18,000 euros, which would allow for the purchase of approximately 20 to 25 different aids by the end of the year.
The library has been in operation for 30 years
The library at the local branch has been in operation for 30 years, having been established in 1996 to facilitate the daily lives of elderly, immobile, or less mobile patients cared for by their family members, people with disabilities, and all those in need. Through the free lending of aids, the library aims to enable a quicker recovery and better care in one’s own home for users and their families.
As of the end of 2025, the library had a total of 720 aids, of which 609 were with users. Two years ago, a 200-square-metre storage facility was built for the library.
Needs are growing
Director Marija Dugalić highlights that needs are increasing. Aids are needed immediately after discharge from hospital due to various injuries or deteriorating health conditions, and for a family that would have to buy them, it is a considerable expense. The aim is to help reduce costs for families and provide the necessary aid for use.
Dugalić points out that a significant issue is the aging of the equipment, as aids wear out over time and use, and it is difficult to find a technician who specialises in repairing and maintaining them. She says it is difficult when they have to turn someone away because a specific aid is not available.
Volunteers from the Red Cross will visit homes, and the campaign will also take place in primary and secondary schools and kindergartens. The aim of the campaign in schools and kindergartens is to develop a sense of solidarity and the importance of helping fellow citizens from an early age.
Everyone will receive thank-you notes in the value of the donated amount. The Croatian Red Cross is calling on legal entities, self-employed individuals, and other donors to participate, with a special account opened for the humanitarian campaign. The funds will be used exclusively for the approved purpose.
Dugalić points out that the availability of aids greatly affects the quality of life of people in need and their family members who care for them. She invites all people of good will to join in and support the campaign, stating that every donated amount and every new aid will be a great help.
