THUNDER BAY — An essential service for Thunder Bay's vulnerable population is about to re-launch for the winter season.
The Care Bus, operated by NorWest Community Health Centres, offers free transportation, shelter, and connections to health and social services to the homeless and others in need.
This is the fourth year that it's been running.
Last winter, it served an average of 62 clients a day, for a total of 5,827 clients.
The initiative is a partnership with the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship centre supported by the Métis Nation of Ontario and the John Howard Society.
In an announcement Monday, NorWest Community Health Centrees said the main reason people reported for riding the bus was having a warm or a safe place to stay (61 per cent) and having transportation to a necessary service (34 per cent).
But staff also made 618 referrals of clients to various community support services last year.
NorWest CEO Juanita Lawson said the Care Bus stands as a beacon of resilience and care.
"It serves as a lifeline, especially with the rising cost of living and heightened demand for housing," she stated. "Its operation is crucial in promptly connecting individuals with necessary support."
Lawson expressed appreciation for collaboration and funding provided by the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration board and the Lakehead Social Planning Council, saying that without their support the Care Bus would not be able to operate.
