Dial-A-Ride in Pictou County

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

Residents in Pictou County are able to access services in their communities thanks to the success of the Dial-A-Ride program.

Over the past year, volunteers provided rides to more than 25,000 passengers. This month, the service will be getting its fifth new vehicle, the largest number of vehicles in use in any of the inclusive transportation programs in Nova Scotia.

Ron Levy, co-ordinator of the Central Highlands Association of the Disabled (CHAD), which oversees Dial-A-Ride in Pictou County, said the transportation service began in 1996 and provides a much-needed service to residents.

"The program provides affordable transportation for those who have no other means of getting around," said Mr. Levy. "It enables people to be involved in their own community and gives them their independence."

Dial-A-Ride Nova Scotia provides transportation for Nova Scotians who have disabilities or low incomes or who 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).