A local agency is looking for volunteers to help give the ‘gift of a lift’ this holiday season and beyond.
Family Service Kent is recruiting volunteer drivers to help support seniors and those with mobility issues as they travel to and from medical appointments, social events, and other short errands.
Marjorie Crew, Volunteer and Community Wellbeing Coordinator says there’s been an increased need for drivers in Wallaceburg and North Kent, particularly in rural areas. She says both driver and client can benefit from the social interaction.
“Sometimes they drive to London, Windsor, Sarnia, around Chatham-Kent, but they’re in that car, some clients want to chat all the way there and have a nice conversation, sometimes they just want to be quiet. It’s interesting the relationships that happen with our clients and drivers, it gives all of that emotional support to both.”
Volunteers can set their own hours and time commitment, whether it’s one ride a month or multiple trips in a week. Drivers are reimbursed for mileage on their personal vehicle.
Anyone who would like to become a volunteer driver is urged to contact Family Service Kent at 519-354-6221 x241. Each driver must clear a vulnerable sector check through the Chatham-Kent Police Service.
