Veiner centre highlights importance of ride program

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on July 15, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Throughout July the Unison at Veiner Centre has been promoting and sharing stories from users of its transport program that provides door-to-door assisted transportation services to aging adults at a subsidized cost.

The Veiner Vintage Transportation program launched in 2024 and has provided more than 1,300 rides to seniors in Medicine Hat and surrounding rural areas, ensuring they have a ride to essential appointments, including medical and legal visits, banking and participation in activities and events at the Veiner and Strathcona Centre

Throughout 2024 the program, which is driven by volunteer drivers, averaged 30 rides each week to doctor and dentist appointments, the hospital, denturist, physiotherapist as well as banks, legal services and rides to the Strathcona and Veiner centres for activities.

For residents over the age of 50 who make less than $25,000 annually, round-trip rides can cost as little as $5.

On Thursday the Veiner Centre shared the story of Jan, a woman who lost her sight and uses the Veiner Vintage Transportation program, in a story published in the Prairie Post.

The loss of her sight forced Jan to use taxis and public transit to get around and often was wary of relying on others to get around.

“With losing my sight, I was a little afraid of getting in vehicles and relying on people to trust that they will take me where I need to go,” said Jan.

However, Jan explains volunteer drivers with the Veiner Vintage Transportation program make her feel safe and are reliable to make sure she arrives at her appointments on time.

As of June this year the Veiner Centre says the service has provided transportation to more than 140 clients with the help of 26 dedicated volunteer drivers.

Throughout the month of July, the Veiner Centre is asking for community support for the transport program and are accepting donations online and in person at the reception desk.

This year Hatters are able to “purchase a ride” for a senior, to help remove the cost and maintain their independence as well as social connections.

Editors note: An earlier version of the story erroneously portrayed the Veiner Centre transport program as a ride-share program. The program is for low-income seniors who are unable to drive themselves with little to no other transportation access. 

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