Smoky River Family and Community Support Services – In Focus
Georgia Dubois
Director, Smoky River FCSS
The Smoky River Community Transportation began more than 10 years ago and is unique to the Smoky River region.
General operating funds are derived through rider fees, the generous contributions from the municipalities of Donnelly, Falher, Girouxville and McLennan, as well as the M.D. of Smoky River No. 130. It is the only program of its kind in Alberta. The program is administered by Smoky River FCSS who in turn schedule, maintain and ensure all drivers, licensing, inspection and insurance requirements are met. The Smoky River Transportation Committee comprised of members from all contributing municipalities as well as members from SRFCSS and members at large meet about four times a year.
This ridership for this program has includes anyone who resides in the region. Trips to Grande Prairie and Peace River allow residents to attend doctor and specialist appointments while also providing a chance to socialize and visit family. In addition, special trips are planned throughout the year that provides fun and laughter while giving people a chance to discover some of the wonders of the Peace Country. The program also provides transportation for participants in the Summer Youth Program as well as providing transportation for other youth who participate in FCSS programming. The community van can also be rented by individuals or organizations who reside within region who have need of a wheelchair accessible vehicle.
The program has obtained a second smaller wheelchair accessible van to provide a much needed shuttle service between the various municipalities of the Smoky River region. The launch of the shuttle service will begin sometime in 2016.
Call our office at (780) 837-2220 if you would like a transportation schedule mailed to you, or if you would like to put your name on the list to take a trip.