When Gwen Van Laeken first joined Ontario Cares (Partnership for Ontario County) as executive director, her staff told her within days that they needed a van. She took note. As it became clear that transportation was a real barrier keeping local Veterans from accessing pro-social activities, it became a mission.

Last summer, we hosted our Red, White & Blue event, bringing Veterans together to promote social connection while raising money and awareness around the transportation barrier so many face. Even basic tasks like getting groceries, attending a wellness event, or simply showing up somewhere can be difficult without reliable transportation.

We just took a major step forward. Earlier this month, the van arrived.

Our Veterans Coalition Program Coordinator Luke Moody, a Veteran himself, has seen firsthand how much reliable transportation can change things as he’s become more integrated into the community. The van will help ensure that more Veterans can connect with the services, opportunities, and support they deserve.

“The van will help provide access for Veterans who lack a social support network. There currently is much-needed transportation to medical and legal appointments. But in a rural area where public transportation is not as available, a van for the Veteran community is a huge step forward in bringing the community together.”

Connecting with others is essential to overall health, and Veterans are at heightened risk for depression and social isolation, making community especially important. The van is here, and we’re excited to get started on bridging this critical gap.