Practice makes perfect and that goes for seniors who are feeling a little out of the loop when it comes to getting out and about. Now there's an easier way to get out and about every Tuesday and Wednesday thanks to the Wheels to Meals program.
The new program sees a volunteer driver and co-ordinator organize a trip out for lunch, to the mall, bowling or any other place seniors would like to go - and the best part is it's a door-to-door service.
"We really like to see seniors getting out and being socially interactive so we decided to try Wheels to Meals," said Judy Close, program co-ordinator with the Prince George Council of Seniors. "So there's a social outreach piece to this as well and it's really taking off."
Close said it becomes a habit to stay home when seniors are reluctant to drive - especially in the winter.
"You can imagine you're stuck at home and can't get out and it really does affect a person's health," said Close. "To us social contact and outreach is huge and this will make it easier for seniors to get out."
Close understands how seniors feel when friends have moved away or someone close has passed away, that's why the group has implemented this initiative.
"We've been working on getting it out on the road driving the seniors around because there is such a need for transportation in the city," said Close.
There's Handy Dart, she added, but they can't keep up with the demand.
"Not everybody can afford cabs and the buses might not be ideal for some seniors."
Norgate Autobody donated the van a few years ago through a program where they find vehicles that have been written off by ICBC but require repair that does not compromise the safety of the vehicle. Volunteers do what it takes to make the vehicle roadworthy and donate it to a non-profit organization in need.
There's a golf tournament at Aberdeen Glen June 17 to raise funds to offset the cost of the program, she added.
There is a suggested donation of $2 for each outing to help cover costs. For more information about the Wheels to Meals program call 250-564-5888.
