New Van for LOFT Community Services helps seniors remain connected to the community thanks to a $91,700 Ontario Government Grant

November 29, 2024

Bradford, ON – On Friday morning, MPP Caroline Mulroney was at LOFT Community Services (LOFT) to see the results of a $91,700 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) – a new accessible van! The grant, awarded this past summer, enabled LOFT to purchase the vehicle that will help it enhance accessible transportation for senior clients with mental and physical challenges in the region.

“It was great to join the team at LOFT Community Services to recognize how they are providing improved mobility options for the most vulnerable members of our community who experience transportation barriers,” said Caroline Mulroney, MPP for York-Simcoe. “Because of our government’s investment through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, this new and accessible van will get people to where they need to go, comfortably and safely.”

With the addition of the newly modified van, LOFT is helping seniors regain independence, take on personal tasks and errands, manage medical and personal appointments and get out into their community to engage in social gatherings, trips to museums, malls, community centers, beaches, and picnics. This accessible van conducts 10 to 15 trips per week – up to 750 trips per year – ensuring clients are active participants in the community while contributing to their own well-being.

“We are so grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for their support of LOFT programs and services,” said Heather McDonald, CEO of LOFT. “Our mission is to ensure the optimal health and well-being of our clients. Access to reliable, accessible transportation is a big part of that – especially for our seniors.”

Since 1953, LOFT has been opening doors to hope, offering support to people facing mental and physical health challenges, dementia, addictions, poverty, and/or homelessness. Through a holistic, person-centered approach to care, LOFT operates over 70 mental health programs across Toronto, York Region, and Simcoe County offering 1,882 beds and serving 19,878 people annually. 

“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the LOFT Community Services deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure that it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”