The residents of Canora experiencing mobility challenges received welcome news recently when Canora’s new mobility bus arrived on August 29.
The bus was paid for by the Town of Canora, said Michael Mykytyshyn, chief administrative officer.
“The cost was $100,800 and $55,000 was funded through the provincial government’s Transit Assistance for People with Disabilities (TAPD) capital grant program,” said Mykytyshyn.
For the most part the drivers are Canora Gateway Lodge staff through a partnership between the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the Town of Canora. Bookings are handled through the Canora Gateway Lodge administrative office. Users pay a fee per trip. Mykytyshyn said the new bus replaces Canora’s previous 1997 model which was experiencing mechanical problems and beginning to have trouble passing the annual safety inspection.
Continued access to the mobility bus provides a number of important benefits to residents of the Canora Gateway Lodge, according to Leanne Buchinski, CGL health services manager.
“The residents not only depend on the mobility bus for transportation for medical appointments but also for social engagements and recreational experiences such as community outings to their favorite church, restaurant or simply the opportunity to take in some sightseeing with a country drive,” said Buchinski. “For individuals who use mobility aids the bus is a lifeline to the community removing both potential transportation and isolation barriers.”
The mobility bus is housed next to the Canora Gateway Lodge.
