(Photo: www.freeimages.com)
A program in Albert County that helps seniors and others who are unable to drive is in jeopardy.
There are around 23 volunteer drivers that go door to door and taking clients to places including appointments, food banks or shopping.
President of Tele-Drive Kirsten Shortt says they have recently been forced to put the program on hold after the recent departure of their Manager, “We have to figure out how we can supply services without a new Manager. So, we’re trying to figure out a way that we cannot discontinue the service altogether.”
Shortt says due to the funding constraints, they are unable to hire a new person.
“We are doing our best to continue to service, but there will some hiccups during the transition,” Shortt says.
Meantime, MLA for Albert Mike Holland says this program has done a great job over the years, and they provide an important service, “As the local MLA, I am reaching out to the departments that oversee and ensure the sustainability of projects like that.”
Holland adds he wishes they had reached out to him directly. He found out via social media, “Tele-Drive and related services of that nature perform a very valuable service in the riding community whether it be for seniors or others who benefit, and I am a supporter. I feel these services serve a purpose and bring significant value. I have advocated strongly that the government ensure that the drive services continue.”
There’s no word yet exactly what is being done yet by the government to help the program for the future.
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