The new van will transport four individuals in wheelchairs as well as four aides, replacing an older van that could transport only one wheelchair-dependent person at a time. The team will use the new van to take residents to appointments for medical and dental care, to the beach and parks, to the library, to a restaurant, a barber, or an adult daycare program. The interior of the new van can even be reconfigured so that it can accommodate 14 seated passengers. You can see the van in action in this segment by KEYT reporter Patricia Martellotti. The pandemic period was socially isolating for all Californians, but most especially for those with disabilities. Cheryl Sweeney, Director of Development for Hillside, notes that “our residents love people” and “are eager to engage with people whenever possible.” This new van opens a world of social interaction and enjoyment for residents of Hillside, allowing them to participate more fully in the life of the community. She adds, “If you’d like to learn more, please visit Hillside for lunch and a tour every third Wednesday of the month at noon (except in December) for our Getting to Know Hillside program. Please contact me at csweeney@hillsidesb.org to reserve a spot.” The Women’s Fund grant provides an important solution for the residents of Hillside – and it makes the city a more inclusive and welcoming place for all those who live here. The new van was delivered at the beginning of the month, in time for Santa Barbara's annual Fiesta celebration. |
