NEW PARATRANSIT VEHICLE FOR ELROSE

People living in Elrose have a new paratransit vehicle thanks in part to the Municipal Transit Assistance for People with Disabilities Program.

Government Relations Minister Len Taylor presented a cheque toward the cost of the new vehicle to Mayor Jim Mills today at the Elrose Health Centre where the new vehicle was showcased to the Golden Years Lodge residents and the people of Elrose and District.

The province contributed $55,000 for the vehicle through the Municipal Transit Assistance for People with Disabilities Program. The total cost of the vehicle is just over $90,000.

"We are very happy to provide funding toward the cost of a new vehicle," Taylor said. "I'm sure it will be well used by the many citizens of Elrose that rely on the paratransit service to access services and attend events throughout the community."

"We are thrilled to have a new Handivan for Elrose," Mayor Jim Mills said. "This would not have been possible without the generosity of the many local groups, the Kinsmen Foundation and the provincial government. I know that the new vehicle will benefit our seniors and other residents who rely on it to get around town."

Through the Municipal Transit Assistance for People with Disabilities Program, the provincial government provides financial assistance for 77 communities with operating grants, as well as providing capital toward the cost of 5 new vehicles per year. The province provided a total of $2.65 million for the program in 2003-2004.

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For More Information, Contact:

Maureen Boyle Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-5959