Handi-Bus gets 40K boost from former beloved user

Times Reporter   

 

The Strathmore Handi-Bus Association is an instrumental service for seniors, and disabled people who need to get around the community or go into Calgary for appointments. The Handi-Bus has been a registered Association since 1986, which serves residents in the Town of Strathmore and Wheatland County.  

It began as a passion to transport seniors and physically disabled people, through volunteer drivers and community support. It has grown into a service that encourages independence and quality of life. 

Barb Johanson loved the Handi-Bus. She passed away on Feb. 26, 2012, and in her will she requested that $40,000 of her estate be donated to the Strathmore Handi-Bus Association. 

On April 1 Johanson’s long time friend, caregiver, and executor of her will Dorothy Carnine presented the association with the cheque for $40,000. 

“It was very much needed,” said Florence Vander Velde, secretary/treasurer for the Handi-Bus Association. 

Johanson, who was raised just northwest of Carseland, had worked in Calgary before being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. When Johanson could no longer work, Carnine became her caregiver and they lived together on an acreage southwest of Strathmore. 

When she could no longer walk, Johanson would rely on wheelchairs and the Handi-Bus to get her around. She eventually bought a wheelchair accessible van, but when it was out of commission or the weather was taking a turn for the worse, she would still rely on the services of the Handi-Bus Association. 

“Barb loved giving and she loved the Handi-bus,” said Carnine.

“She used the Handi-bus a fair amount, thought it was an excellent need filled.”

While it has not been entirely determined what the funds will be used for, Vander Velde said it might be used to purchase a new bus. 

“We were hoping to match it with a government grant but the government cut that portion of its program,” said Vander Velde. 

With the cut of the Community Spirit Program, which would match personal donations, many organizations will be left trying to figure out how to come up with the extra funds needed. A new large bus costs approximately $60,000. Vander Velde said the Association will likely be doing fundraising, and asking for corporate sponsors to help cover the remaining funds for a new bus, if that is the route they take.