Dial-A-Ride in Kings County

The following is a feature story from Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations on Dial-A-Ride Nova Scotia.

Most people take it for granted that they can participate in events and activities in their communities, but others face challenges just to get there. The Dial-A-Ride program in Kings County is helping residents overcome these challenges.

"The program has helped people become very active in community events," said Stephanie Vogler, executive director of the Kings County Alternative Transportation Services Society, which oversees the Dial-A-Ride program. "It provides transportation so residents can do things like banking, shopping and volunteering."

The program provides about 1,000 rides per month, mostly to people with disabilities seeking employment opportunities and seniors who need access to medical services.

"The program has given residents in rural Kings County access to services they may not have access to otherwise," said Ms. Vogler. "Accessibility is about being able to get to a building as much as it's about getting into a building."

Dial-A-Ride Nova Scotia provides transportation services for Nova Scotians who have disabilities, are on low incomes or are elderly, and who need safe, affordable and accessible transportation. It offers a wide range of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles for people with special mobility needs.

In areas where there are Dial-A-Ride programs, the service can pick up residents at home, take them where they need to go and return them later in the day. It is essential for those who cannot afford transportation by other means to travel to medical appointments, job interviews and other activities.

Up to one-third of the funding for Dial-A-Ride comes from the provincial government, while non-profit community-based organizations raise the rest of the funds.

"This service is helping to improve the lives of many Nova Scotians and we're proud to take part in it," said Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "We're grateful to volunteers and community organizations who have come together to make it happen."

More information about Dial-A-Ride Nova Scotia is available on the Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Web site, at www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/dialaride, or the toll-free hotline at 1- 877-305-RIDE (7433).