Retired Link vans boost transportation access for five regional nonprofits

WENATCHEE — Five nonprofits across Chelan and Douglas counties will soon have additional transportation capacity after Link Transit awarded retired vans through its Surplus Van Grant Program, expanding access to medical care, community programs and essential services throughout the region.

This year’s recipients are Brave Warrior NCW, the Boys & Girls Club of Chelan, the Chelan Senior Center, Lake Wenatchee Fire & Rescue and Purpose Boxing. The program provides surplus vehicles to qualifying nonprofit organizations and public agencies, with priority for those serving seniors, veterans and people with disabilities.

“These organizations improve lives in North Central Washington every day,” said Chris Clark, Link’s rideshare coordinator, who manages the grant program. “Link appreciates the opportunity to help broaden the scope and reach of the services and programs they provide within our community.”

For Brave Warrior NCW, the van will help address transportation barriers for young adults and adults with disabilities. In a statement, the organization said many families lack reliable, accessible vehicles and that public transportation options do not always meet sensory, medical or mobility needs, limiting participation in programs and community activities. The vehicle will allow participants to reach those opportunities “safely, reliably and inclusively.”

Lake Wenatchee Fire & Rescue said the van will support older adults who often live alone and no longer drive, providing trips to medical appointments, pharmacies and food banks as well as transportation during emergency evacuations.

At the Chelan Senior Center, leaders emphasized the connection between mobility and well-being. “Mobilization and socialization are crucial for the well-being of older adults, positively impacting their physical, mental and emotional health,” the center said, adding that reliable transportation helps seniors stay connected and maintain a higher quality of life.

“Link Transit values its partnerships with agencies across the communities we serve and is committed to using our resources to directly address local transportation needs,” CEO Nick Covey said. “We’re proud of this grant program and the positive impact it will have on the quality of life for so many of our residents.”

In its 35 years of service, Like Transit has consistently provided public transportation throughout Chelan and Douglas counties with a mission of connecting rural and urban communities and improving access to daily destinations. The Surplus Van Grant Program is the latest expression of that mission.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media