The United Way of Chatham-Kent is kicking off a new program in Blenheim this morning.
The program is called “Van with a Plan”, and is described as a community based solution to the transportation and access problems effecting local human service associations, and more so, the people they serve.
“Turning outward and listening deeply to the CK community is at the heart of our new business model,” Patricia Peters, the United Way’s Acting CEO says. “Our human services sector identified transportation as a priority need in CK, then some amazing donors and local businesses got together to make it happen. Innovative solutions like Van With a Plan happen when we engage with our community and learn to listen.”
The new share use, multi-agency vehicle will be used to help the vulnerable through mobile service delivery and outreach. It will be available to all service groups working within the municipality.
“This van will save lives,” says Colleen Lewis, Board Chair, ROCK Missions. “Each week, we serve over 600 lunches, conduct Hep C testing, deliver harm reduction, and check in with our friends on the street. The van lets us bring our services to people with dignity, confidentiality, and respect.”
Today’s kick-off runs from 9:30 to 3 pm at the Pit Crew Café on Talbot Trail, and features a charity lunch to help raise money to cover the cost of the new venture.
Listen to XS Mornings hot Jay Smith’s interview with Acting CEO Patricia Peters:
