West Country Family Service Association (WCFSA) says it has successfully recruited new volunteers to drive local seniors to medical appointments, but certain challenges remain.
The organization did a big push to recruit new volunteer drivers back in the spring as other drivers had retired or quit due to life circumstances, says Marina Kulich, executive director for WCFSA.
The effort was successful, she says, as the organization now has 10 volunteers which is an ideal number for the three WCFSA fleet unit it has.
However, it’s still not enough to meet community needs, says Kulich, as between April and September alone, WCFSA was forced to refuse 62 transportation requests as the units and volunteers were already booked.
The demand is only expected to grow, she says, as an aging local population will require more medical transportation services in the next 20 years.
WCFSA data from the spring show the organization completed 1,132 total client pickups in 2023. Its volunteer drivers travelled over 68,000 km and volunteered over 2,400 hours that were served just transporting clients from Rocky Mountain House.
Data also shows there were trips completed to appointments in Rocky Mountain House, but also many trips to the Red Deer Hospital and Calgary Foothills Medical Centre.
Kulich says WCFSA is looking at other options to pick up the slack – even collaborating with other organizations that can provide transportation and rides.
One of the options being discussed is The Tamarack Transit System Project, she says.
“It was something that was explored last year thanks to a grant,” says Kulich. “Basically [looking] to determine what it would be like to have public transportation in Clearwater County and Rocky Mountain House.”
WCFSA, which started in 2010, began with just one van – so its certainly open to exploring different options to best serve the community, she adds.
Kulich appeared before Clearwater County council on Oct. 8 with a message that a united front between different levels of government, along with community engagement is key for success.
She also added a great way to support the organization is to become a board member. The once-a-month volunteer commitment is open to anyone who has a heart for seniors and is interested in the governance aspect of the organization.
Those interested can call 403-845-2033 or email info@WCFSA.com.
Along with senior transportation to health care appointments, WCFSA provides programs for the region such as Meals On Wheels, Adopt-A-Senior, Lifeline, grocery delivery and home support.
Comments