A Steadfast Helping Hand

We call it a safety net — a place to turn if you face an unexpected financial crisis. In the past few weeks, many in our LS&Co. community have found themselves literally in the eye of the storm. Our stores in Houston, Florida and Mumbai were closed for multiple days, and several of our colleagues faced immediate and direct damages to their homes.

The Red Tab Foundation (RTF) — funded by employee donations — has been on the front lines supporting our colleagues and helping to alleviate the impact of these storms. So far, RTF has funded hotel stays for employees whose homes were flooded, made sure that rent and utilities were paid for to compensate for unexpected storm-related expenses, and replenished food supplies after lack of power and refrigeration.

The help that RTF is able to provide following the tumult of a disaster goes a long way. “Red Tab has been an incredible resource,” said District Manager Steve Nelson. “When RTF helped out so quickly with support, the response was disbelief.”

But what sets RTF apart is that we’re in it for the long haul. RTF will continue to provide support long after the immediate needs of the disaster have passed. This includes stepping in to cover costs that insurance won’t — car repairs and cleaning, replacement of household goods and clothing — in addition to repairing and rebuilding homes.

Our colleagues across the globe have been spreading the word about RTF to those in need, but if you know anyone who still needs help, please tell them to reach out via email or call 1-800-544-5498.

The reason RTF is able to provide this lifeline of support is all thanks to donors like you. Support for Red Tab has been steadily climbing in recent years. Today, nearly 50 percent of our employees contribute to RTF. And though donations have increased, so has employee need. This year we expect to receive 35 percent more grant requests from employees than three years ago. The need and the mission of RTF has never been more relevant.

We are especially proud of our ability and dedication to providing continuous care, but we can’t do it without each and every one of you. You can donate to RTF through payroll deduction or any number of options that will be highlighted via the annual RTF giving campaign that kicks off in a few weeks. In the meantime, know that RTF is stepping up and helping our friends and colleagues around the world who are facing real challenges behind the headlines.

Grantee Spotlight: Kendi

Kendi F., Store Manager – Troutdale, Oregon

One morning, after flying home from the Field Leadership Conference, retail store manager Kendi experienced an unusual onset of nausea and dizziness. After months of ongoing symptoms, multiple doctor’s visits, and seemingly endless tests, she was directed to an ear, nose and throat specialist.

Kendi was diagnosed with Acute Bilateral Meniere’s disease, which causes recurrent episodes of extreme vertigo — each lasting 20 minutes to 12 hours –, confusion, and hearing loss. After several ineffective treatments and with her symptoms worsening, Kendi was given a more extreme option: surgery coupled with a device to equalize the fluid and pressure in the inner ear. The device alone cost close to $4,000 and because of the rarity of the disease, insurance would not cover the costs. Without the financial means to obtain the treatment, Kendi’s quality of life continued to suffer.

Then, a fellow colleague who was familiar with Kendi’s situation contacted Red Tab on her behalf. A case manager reached out to Kendi, helped her complete an application, and secured the financial support she needed to restore her health.

Now, not only is Kendi a past grantee, but she is an advocate for the Red Tab Foundation:

“The Red Tab has given me back quality of life! I signed up for a monthly contribution as well as donating at the register and encourage everyone to give what they can. It could change your life one day!”

With the Red Tab Foundation’s help, Kendi is back to serving customers and leading her team.

Know someone who needs assistance? Contact us here.

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