Thanks to The CRAM Foundation for sharing their news.
Most of us don't think twice about catching a train or a bus. But for people with complex disabilities, like the CRAM Foundation’s participants, public transport may not always be practical, safe or timely. This makes it hard to keep health appointments, attend social gatherings and take part in community events.
So, with transport playing a critical role in participants’ independence, last week the CRAM Foundation (Cram) was thrilled to welcome a new Toyota HiAce with a bespoke wheelchair fit-out to its fleet.
Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes, Cram CEO Karen Burdett and Cram participants Ash, Kate and Cheryl attended an official ceremony to hand over the keys at Wollongong Lighthouse at Flagstaff Hill on Tuesday, 21 November.
Cram received more than $80,000 to put towards the bus thanks to the Strong and Resilient Communities (SARC) – Inclusive Communities Federal Grant round.
Cram CEO Karen Burdett said, “We are so grateful to Alison Byrnes and the Strong and Resilient Communities Grants team for recognising the importance of enabling accessible transport for people with disability. It’s a critical part of their support and having access to this type of infrastructure will assist participants to engage and experience our beautiful region.”
With a focus on people with disability, mental health issues and vulnerable women, SARC Inclusive Communities grants aim to support vulnerable and disadvantaged people to participate socially and economically through local community-driven solutions that build self-reliance and empowerment.
Cram will use the new bus to help with transporting its participants throughout the region. The bus will enable participants to engage with more activities, on a regular basis with multiple participants and friends.
Alison Byrnes MP said, “The delivery of this bus to the CRAM Foundation will make a real difference to the quality of life of people living with a disability within the Illawarra. It will support the CRAM Foundation in ensuring that everyone in our community will have the mobility they need to participate and enjoy every part of our Illawarra community.”