New recruits needed for Oyen’s Handi-Bus

In 1988, the Oyen Kinsmen Club and the Oyen Lions Club purchased a 1988 Ford 12-passenger modified school bus. The Oyen Community Handi-Bus Association was established to coordinate the vehicle's operation in May 1989. The purpose was to support the seniors and disabled in our community.

Thirty-five years later, the Handi-Bus is used in a variety of ways in Oyen and surrounding communities including a wide variety of community events - farmer's market, funeral transportation, AV elevator & tea trips, Special Areas tours, Medicine Hat trips, Rosebud Theater, Empress tours, weddings, field trips and church services. Once a week, the Handi-Bus transports seniors from the Oyen Lodge to the Hospital for medical services and weekly scheduled shopping trips.

Some of our board members have been with us for the entire 35 years. Over the past few years, many members have retired, and we have a few more that would like to retire in the near future. We currently have some new trial recruits, but our numbers at the moment are low. We would love to see more community members volunteer for the Handi-Bus and join our board meetings in order to continue the Handi-Bus Service in Oyen. A new secretary and someone to train to replace our treasurer, bookings and maintenance would also be greatly appreciated. We also have several older drivers, and anyone who is interested in being on the list to volunteer to drive the Handi-Bus can contact Manfred Schroeder (403-664-0957). Drivers are paid $25/hr for out-of-town trips. Please call Manfred if you have any more questions.

The Handi-Bus is used several times a month, and we feel it is an asset in our community in supporting those needing this type of service. The Board is currently in the process of trying to raise funds to purchase a new Handi-Bus. If you would like to make a donation, please contact Manfred Schroeder or our new president as of 2022, James Walker 403-664-8351.