‘It’s the best job I’ve ever had’: a ride along with the Seniors Transportation program

“And with the gas prices the way they are, it’s been pretty amazing we haven’t had to raise the prices,” Vandevoord said.

While the program accepts donations year-round, Friday’s Two Miles for Mary radiothon is considered its biggest fundraiser of the year and this year’s ambitious goal is $50,000. Organizers hope to one day offer a third vehicle and possibly evening pickups.

Vandevoord stated that would be handy, given that many people are not finished with doctors’ appointments until later in the day, or they want to attend an evening event, such as a show at the EA Rawlinson Centre or a Christmas concert.

Thursday afternoon’s first stop is a house on 17th Street West, and Rita wants to go to Walmart to pick up groceries and some new air filters. She said she’s been using the service for 10 years.

“I’m assured a ride,” she said. “I used to take the bus, but my feet are not as good as they once were.”

In two hours, Bonnie will return to Walmart to take Rita home, but in the meantime she has two more pickups to do, including Albert, who is getting off work at the SARCAN facility in the city’s north end.

In addition to his trips back and forth to work, Albert also relies on the service to get to the bank and pick up his medicine.

“It’s a very good service for anyone who can use it, and it’s very handy,” he said.

Kayla Pollock, the Two Miles for Mary fundraising coordinator, said the service is about more than just a ride for many.

“It really opens up the opportunity for them to continue having the independence people need for a good quality of life,” she said.

This year’s radiothon starts with a pancake breakfast Friday, Sept. 25, at 6 a.m. at the Heritage Seniors Centre. The radiothon will air on 900 CKBI from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., and Power 99 FM will also be on location. Donations can also be made at pacsc.com/donate.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

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by Nigel Maxwell

‘It’s the best job I’ve ever had’: a ride along with the Seniors Transportation program

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