The War Amputations of Canada, a charitable organization more commonly known as The War Amps, is celebrating its 95th anniversary. Established in 1918 by World War I veterans who had lost limbs in battle, the organization was founded to provide counseling, self-help, and practical assistance, including financial support, to Canadian veterans with amputations. The group was originally named The Amputations Association of The Great War, which was changed to its current name at the beginning of World War II.
In 1946, the Key Tag Service was launched as a means of providing employment for war amputees. The Civilian Liaison Program was established in 1953 to broaden the group’s reach, and the Child Amputee (CHAMP) program began in 1975 to serve the needs of children with amputations. The organization also has an education program that offers funding to Canadian prosthetists, prosthetic technicians, orthotists, and orthotic technicians to attend courses to upgrade their skills and ensure these professionals have access to up-to-date technology and new innovations, products, and techniques to benefit Canadian amputees. Aside from providing resources to all Canadians with amputations, The War Amps continues its goal of preserving Canada’s military heritage.
