Joanne Peckham, Town of Athabasca Councillor (left) and Doris Splane, Athabasca County (right) accept a $1,500 sponsorship from Dora L’Heureux, Stakeholder Relations Manager at FortisAlberta Inc. The sponsorship will go towards the purchase of a new Handi-Van in the Athabasca region.
The provision of transportation in the Athabasca Region, and the Municipal District of Opportunity, is the result of a partnership between the Town of Athabasca, Village of Boyle and Athabasca County. Together they form the Community Transportation Committee. Members of the Committee, and now corporate/community partners, are helping to provide safe and affordable transportation for those who need it.
The Community Transportation Committee operates two vehicles in the region. The Handi-Bus and Handi-Van both feature regular seating and wheelchair access.
“With the help of our dedicated drivers we are able to provide safe and affordable transportation to a variety of people including those with disabilities, the elderly and low-income residents,” says Karl Kopan, Athabasca County’s Communications Coordinator. “Each year the Handi-Van averages about 280 trips and the Handi-Bus over 450 trips transporting clients, many of whom are seniors, to medical appointments, shopping, social activities and outings.”
Athabasca County, who manages bookings, staff and maintenance of the vehicles, received delivery of a new Handi-Van last week. Due to regular maintenance the region has received very good service out of the vehicle that is being replaced. However, with nearly 500,000 kms logged, the vehicle had reached the end of its service life. To prevent a service interruption, replacement was recommended and a new van was purchased at a cost of $83,503.
Sponsorship Opportunity
This year the Community Transportation Committee is offering sponsorship opportunities for businesses and service clubs to help with replacement costs of the Handi-Van. Any sponsorship is appreciated and tax receipts are issued for those requesting them. If the donation is $1,500, or more, your company/organization logo will be added to the outside of the van to recognize your contribution.
If you are interested in supporting community transportation in the region, or want to find out more about Community Transportation, please contact Roxanne Senyk for more information.
For More Information
780-675-2273 | 1-844-662-2273 | info@athabascacounty.com
