THUNDER BAY – LIVING – Beginning in June, 2015, March of Dimes Canada (MODC) will be rolling out its ModMobility bus tour. For many Canadians living with physical disabilities, there are barriers to accessing the recreational activities and community events that lead to friendships and essential social integration. March of Dimes Canada’s MODMobility Bus offers flexibility in configuration that can accommodate up to 10 wheelchairs and 10 seated passengers, allowing groups to enjoy recreational activities, day trip and family outings.
The tour will leave Toronto, Ontario on June 1, 2015 with stops at Sault St. Marie, Sudbury and Thunder Bay. A further trip to Atlantic Canada is being planned.
On June 6th, the bus will be stopping in Thunder Bay, allowing participants from March of Dimes Canada’s Warehouse Project to enjoy a fun-filled day touring Gammondale Farm, Kakabeka Falls Park and other local parks.
The Warehouse Project and MODC Community Garden is a unique community program that allows participants living with disabilities to build upon their social network, take part in activities such as art, woodworking, gardening, cooking, recreation, community outings and special events. The Warehouse programming supports building confidence and enhancing independence beyond the program itself. The Warehouse encourages community engagement and often participants move on to new experiences such as volunteering, furthering their education, joining social groups and pursuing employment. The Warehouse is well known for being an upbeat, positive and fun environment for all participants, from young adults to seniors.
Participants will be able to enjoy an outing thanks to the new MODMobility Bus.
“The aim of the MODMobility Journey is to demonstrate how accessible transportation can enrich and enhance the quality of life and community participation of people living with disabilities, their families and caregivers,” says Jerry Lucas, Chief Operating Officer of March of Dimes Canada. “It is our hope to be able to expand this type of programming across Canada, offering recreational opportunities to more Canadian families living with disabilities”.
Participants throughout the tour will engage in a social media campaign sharing highlights of the special events and the beautiful views and scenery. To virtually access the MODMobility Journey, please follow @modcanada using the hashtag #MODCBusTour
As well, the MODMobility Bus Tour will be partnering with Make Me Smile, a national thank-you/gift program to support family caregivers. Make Me Smile will give out gift packs to deserving families and will work with discharge planners, social workers, occupational and physiotherapists to deliver the program.
MODMobility’s Journey will also raise awareness of March of Dimes Canada’s programs geared to improving community engagement of Canadians with disabilities, including its Accessible Transportation Services, Campers Helping Campers Program, Recreation and Accessible Travel Program and other services offered at the chosen communities on the tour.
For more information, please email ModMobility@marchofdimes.ca to discuss opportunities or to schedule trips.
March of Dimes Canada is a nationally registered charitable organization providing support services to people with disabilities, their families and caregivers across Canada. Our goal is to enhance the independence and community participation of people with physical disabilities every day through a wide range of programs and services across Canada.
For more information, please visit marchofdimes.ca or call 1-800-263-3463.
