I am a senior living in Saanich who relies on handyDART to maintain my independence and well-being. I live with chronic health conditions, and accessible transit is not just a convenience for me – it is a lifeline.
I am deeply grateful for the handyDART service and the dedicated staff who have always treated riders with kindness and respect. However, I was shocked and disappointed to learn that handyDART has recently reduced the number of rides available and changed its scheduling, all without any notice or consultation with riders.
When I tried to book my usual trips within the two-week advance window, I was told my requests no longer fit the new schedule. These changes will have a dramatic impact on my ability to get to medical appointments, exercise at the pool, attend my place of worship, and participate in community activities like choir rehearsals. For many of us, losing access to handyDART means losing our connection to the community and our independence.
It is especially concerning that these cutbacks come just after the opening of a new, state-of-the-art handyDART facility, which was supposed to improve services, not reduce them. Cutting back on handyDART means cutting off seniors and people with disabilities from essential services and social life.
I urge BC Transit to consult with handyDART users, restore the rides we depend on, and honour their commitment to accessible transit. We deserve a say in decisions that affect our daily lives.
Marilyn Wolovick
Saanich
