Lanark Transportation marked a major milestone Thursday, Sept. 24, celebrating 25 years of providing accessible and affordable transportation to residents throughout Lanark County and the Town of Smiths Falls.
The anniversary celebration was held at the Beckwith Community Hall, bringing together riders, drivers, supporters, donors and government representatives for an afternoon recognizing the organization’s contribution to the community.
The event included refreshments and an opportunity for guests to meet Lanark Transportation drivers and learn more about the organization’s work. Remarks and a cake-cutting ceremony were held at 2 p.m.
“This quarter-century milestone is significant to everyone involved,” said Marilyn Bird, executive director of the Lanark Transportation Association.
“Not only does it allow us to reflect on the impact we’ve been able to have on the community as a non-profit, but to also look towards the future, imagining how else we could better support our rural residents over the next 25 years.”
Lanark Transportation began in 2001 with just two vehicles, one of which was wheelchair accessible. Since then, the grassroots, not-for-profit organization has expanded to a fleet of 19 vehicles, including five accessible vehicles.
Today, the service provides transportation for seniors, people with disabilities, families and other residents who need assistance getting to medical appointments, food programs, counselling, day programs and social services.
The organization is also close to providing non-emergency transportation for people returning home from hospital.For residents in rural communities, access to transportation can be critical. A medical appointment, social program or essential service may be located miles from home, making reliable and affordable transportation an important part of maintaining independence and quality of life.
Lanark Transportation’s services are subsidized through government grants, donations and individual support, including the Ontario Disability Support Program.
Bird said sustainable funding from Lanark County and the gas-tax fund, combined with careful financial management, has also allowed the organization to reduce user costs for those who need the service.
The growth from two vehicles to 19 reflects the increasing demand for accessible transportation across the region, but the organization’s mandate has remained much the same: helping rural residents access the services and support they need.
The 25th anniversary celebration provided an opportunity to recognize the many people who have helped Lanark Transportation reach the milestone, including its drivers, riders, donors, government partners and community supporters.
As the organization looks toward the next 25 years, Bird said the focus will remain on finding new ways to support rural residents.
What began in 2001 with two vehicles has grown into an essential transportation service connecting communities throughout Lanark County and Smiths Falls, one ride at a time.
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