To the editor:
Retailers in Thunder Bay are missing an economic opportunity from many physically challenged people, seniors and those suffering from other mobility-limiting health issues.
Recently after vacationing in the U.S I realized just how important maintaining my independence was. I was able to freely shop in the big chain grocery stores, malls, home building and department stores.
Here at home only a few stores offer motorized chairs or wheelchairs. Our bigger stores such as grocery stores and malls fail to understand that individuals still want and need to independently shop.
Not all people have someone to assist them. In Wal-Mart’s remodeling of their store they have secured a fleet of four new motorized chairs.
In our community, a few other stores have gotten on board.
It’s great to offer wheelchairs but remember that a second party to assist may be required, which would lessen one’s level of independence.
I now fall into this category and have noted that when I am able to shop, I only shop at stores offering this specialized service and I tend to spend more money because I am positioned (using a motorized chair with a handy basket) to cruise each department at a comfortable turtle speed with ease and comfort.
Other businesses should consider providing this service. If security is a concern, have those depending on using a special chair sign in, leave a document such as a health card, driver’s license or pay a fee upfront that would be refunded upon the return of the chair.
For many of us who depend on our retail stores to recognize and value our business, we applaud you.
Our city is represented not only by the landscape of new buildings and waterfront property, it includes people who share their compassion, respect and sensitivity to others.
Many residents and visitors to our city will certainly thank you in advance for providing the tools that would allow them to continue to independently shop in Thunder Bay, the city with the Big Heart.
Retailers in Thunder Bay are missing an economic opportunity from many physically challenged people, seniors and those suffering from other mobility-limiting health issues.
Recently after vacationing in the U.S I realized just how important maintaining my independence was. I was able to freely shop in the big chain grocery stores, malls, home building and department stores.
Here at home only a few stores offer motorized chairs or wheelchairs. Our bigger stores such as grocery stores and malls fail to understand that individuals still want and need to independently shop.
Not all people have someone to assist them. In Wal-Mart’s remodeling of their store they have secured a fleet of four new motorized chairs.
In our community, a few other stores have gotten on board.
It’s great to offer wheelchairs but remember that a second party to assist may be required, which would lessen one’s level of independence.
I now fall into this category and have noted that when I am able to shop, I only shop at stores offering this specialized service and I tend to spend more money because I am positioned (using a motorized chair with a handy basket) to cruise each department at a comfortable turtle speed with ease and comfort.
Other businesses should consider providing this service. If security is a concern, have those depending on using a special chair sign in, leave a document such as a health card, driver’s license or pay a fee upfront that would be refunded upon the return of the chair.
For many of us who depend on our retail stores to recognize and value our business, we applaud you.
Our city is represented not only by the landscape of new buildings and waterfront property, it includes people who share their compassion, respect and sensitivity to others.
Many residents and visitors to our city will certainly thank you in advance for providing the tools that would allow them to continue to independently shop in Thunder Bay, the city with the Big Heart.
Joan Kulmala,
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
