More Chatham-Kent residents will be able to access support services thanks to some provincial funding.
Family Service Kent recently received $108,400 through the Ontario Trillium Foundation to buy a new accessible van for its fleet.
Executive Director Dan Farrow says capital grant funding has been used to purchase an AdVANtage vehicle, providing safe, affordable, and accessible door-to-door transportation.
“We’ve been able to internally improve our infrastructure for transportation services, which is geared towards rural communities, which is geared towards vulnerable people in our community,” Farrow says. “It has enhanced our ability to provide transportation to older adults and adults with disabilities in our effort to connect people to their community.”
The AdVANtage vehicle seats up to 11 passengers with the ability to remove seats for wheelchair use, and can be used to connect people to their community, whether it’s getting to medical appointments, buying groceries, or social activities.
Farrow says the agency values being able to provide residents with dignity and and support their well-being.
“We take great pride in our ability to meet the needs of a diverse and vulnerable population. Receiving this grant has enabled us to build into the lives of the people of Chatham-Kent in a more effective and efficient way, we’re more equipped to help the people of Chatham-Kent reach their goals, to reach their potential, as we support, empower, and advocate for people in our community.”
Family Service Kent now has a dozen vehicles on the road with both the AdVANtage vehicles and Care Link, which supports clients’ non-urgent medical transportation needs.
Referrals are welcome from community partners, healthcare providers, family, friends, or self. To initiate a referral or inquire about services, please phone 519-354-6221 ext. 246 or email tmartin@familyservicekent.com.
