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Petawawa’s Lifeline: How Affordable Transportation Helps Seniors Like Bev York Thrive

Transportation in Eastern Ontario

At 85 years old, Bev York has learned to the value of her independence, but it hasn’t always been easy. After the loss of her partner in 2023, Bev moved to Petawawa to live with her son, leaving behind the small town of Beachburg, where she had spent 50 years of her life. Though she found solace in her son’s company, she couldn’t shake the feeling of being cut off from the life she once knew.

Before the move, Bev had used a taxi service for medical appointments. The costs were steep—$44 for a one-way trip from Pembroke to Petawawa—making her feel even more isolated, as the expense was a burden. But then, Bev learned about the new transportation program in Petawawa. It was a game-changer.

The program, part of a partnership between Carefor, the Town of Petawawa, and Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation, provides affordable, door-to-door transportation for eligible residents like Bev. It offers a dedicated accessible van that can accommodate up to eight passengers, including those who use wheelchairs. The cost? Just $5 each way in town.

For Bev, this service has been more than just a convenience. It’s been a lifeline. She began using it again for medical appointments after her move, but soon, she realized the van could take her to more than just healthcare appointments. She could visit the Petawawa Civic Centre to meet with her group of friends—ranging in age from 20 to 86—where she goes to play crib once a week. She could also go grocery shopping, get her hair done, and run errands without having to rely on family members who were often busy with work.

“It’s been my saving grace,” Bev says. The transportation service has helped her feel more connected, giving her a sense of independence she feared she’d lost as she aged. It’s not just the convenience, though. It’s the people. The drivers, particularly Michel, have made a lasting impression on Bev. “Mike is an excellent driver,” she says. “He does everything he possibly can. He’s so kind. He’s more than just a driver—he’s a friend.”

This connection with the drivers is what sets the service apart. “They’re genuinely interested in you as a person,” Bev continues. “We all have down days, and they’re always there to listen.”

Bev’s weekly visits to the Civic Centre have also helped her in her grieving process. “The group has been meaningful to me,” she shares. “We all get along so well, and it’s so nice to see people of all ages coming together.” These social interactions, combined with the independence the transportation provides, have helped her combat the isolation that often comes with aging.

Bev urges other seniors to take advantage of the service. “Independence is a great thing, and we lose it as we get older. This service has given me back some of that independence,” she says. “I don’t drive in the winter, and if it weren’t for this service, I would be much more isolated.”

The program is open to those who have a disability, are seniors, or fall within a vulnerable sector, and for only a $5 fee provides a vital service to those without other transportation options. Residents of Petawawa can register with Carefor and begin using the service by calling ahead to arrange rides.

Additional to this program, Carefor offers non-urgent medical transportation services to bring seniors to and from medical appointments in Petawawa, Pembroke and Ottawa with costs varying based on distance.

For more information about the transportation program and to request service, call 613-732-9993 ext. 3234.

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