SECC’s transit services continue ensuring safety for all

By Abby Neufeld Dick

LEAMINGTON – Throughout the pandemic, South Essex Community Council’s (SECC) transit services, also known as Erie Shore Community Transit, have continued operating to ensure community members are able to access affordable and safe transit to get where they need to go.

Many safety protocols have been put into place including, but not limited to, daily passenger screening, personal protective equipment use, reducing the number of available seats to properly space passengers out, and thorough sanitization of bus surfaces.

SECC’s six drivers have a total of 54 years driving transit for SECC. They go above and beyond to provide a high-quality service to clients.

According to SECC Transit driver Cassandra Gagnon, “I always do my best to provide friendly and professional service. Sometimes it can be difficult to carry conversation wearing a mask, but I still do whatever I can to give [our clients] a good experience on our vehicles.”

Aside from regular trips taking clients to medical appointments, the grocery store, or safely socializing when permitted by public health regulations, SECC’s Transit services have adjusted to fulfill the needs of seniors and persons with disabilities in the community.

“Our staff has been working hard to ensure we are providing the services that will be most helpful to the seniors in our community during this time,” said Mark Wybenga, Community Services Department Coordinator. “It has kept us on our toes and thinking creatively about how to adapt our service offerings.”

Currently, SECC’s Transit is continuing to offer free round-trip transportation to vaccination clinics for anyone who needs it.

If you have an appointment scheduled and would like to arrange transportation, call 519- 326-8629. Additionally, SECC is offering free grocery shopping and delivery services for seniors in need of assistance living in Leamington, Kingsville and Wheatley.

Need a lift? SECC Transit offers safe, affordable and accessible door-to-door transportation. Call 519-326-8629 to schedule a ride.

SECC Transportation Services is a member of the Erie St. Clair CareLink Health Transit collaborative and is funded in part by Ontario Health.