Father Dowd Foundation
The bus project
   A new pilot project is helping the New Hope Senior Citizens’ Center help its fellow community groups. The Father Dowd Foundation in partnership with CCS Community Services is offering the affordable rental of a 20 seat mini-bus to community groups in and around NDG. It makes day trips accessible and affordable compared to commercial rates.
 
   The more groups opting for this bus rental, the better for everyone. This is a winning formula, for those renting because they can save a lot of money, and for New Hope since they will have the bus available as needed throughout the year.
 
   The ability to organize day trips is a boon for local organizations and serves as an important role for at least one of his own group’s programs: the Group Grocery service done in collaboration with CSSS Cavendish, which brings some 60 isolated seniors to a local grocery store twice a week. They receive help in making their purchases and getting around the store. More importantly, they spend time in a valuable social interaction.
 
The bus
   The bus has air-conditioning, seat belts, and easy entry steps.“It’s already been booked twice in the first week!” says New Hope’s Executive Director Gerry Lafferty. “The response has been incredible.”