Women’s Institute donation supports accessible transit in the County

Prince Edward District Women’s Institute members present another $5,000 to the County toward accessible transit service. Members, with Prince Edward County Mayor Steve Ferguson, are Linda Mitchell, Ann Trant, Nancy Wood, Wilma de Wolde, Kim de Bruin, Peggy Burris, Evelyn Peck, president, and Judy Tunnel.

Members of the Prince Edward District Women’s Institute brought the spirit of the season to council Tuesday, presenting another $5,000 donation toward the operation of accessible transit service in the County.

During the presentation, Mayor Steve Ferguson expressed gratitude and noted their contribution raises the total amount they have donated to the County since 2008 to $115,000.

“That is an incredible amount of money and we are most grateful,” he said, praising the Women’s Institute members for their first vision of the need, in 1989, and for tireless efforts following, to launch and support the service.

“The Women’s Institute worked tirelessly. The members conducted research, lobbied government and consulted surrounding jurisdictions on top of raising thousands of dollars,” he said.

“Through many ups and downs, they persevered and succeeded in helping bring accessible transportation to Prince Edward County in 2007. It’s truly a remarkable accomplishment, one that stands as an example for others in our community.”

The service, contracted through Quinte Access, provides seniors and people with mobility issues with door-to-door transportation, allowing them to get to and from medical appointments, work and school, social events, day-to-day errands and more throughout Prince Edward County and beyond.

The Women’s Institute was instrumental in the launch of the program in 2007 with a $100,000 donation over the first five years and continues to donate $5,000 each year over the years, to the County and Quinte Access, raising funds primarily through their annual Art and Craft Sale.

“The County Accessible Transportation system is very appreciated and used and has a positive impact on the many clients that make use of this service,” said Wilma de Wolde, on behalf of the WI. “This inspires the Prince Edward District Women’s Institute members to continue to give their support.”