Lorraine Rest Home presented with new $80,000 minibus

Lorraine Rest Home in Warwick was today gifted with a brand new $80,000 minibus.

The Warwick Parish Council accepted the keys to the Toyota Coaster minibus, which was donated by the Friends of Christ Church, Warwick.

The new van has capacity for 13 passengers and is fully equipped with seat belts, four purpose fitted wheelchairs, a wheelchair lift and a reversing sound warning system.

Lauren Grant, administration said: “Our recreations staff is so excited to have the new bus, and I can not wait for the residents to take their first ride, especially our residents with reduced mobility.

“I’m certain they will start reminiscing once they see the graphics too.

“With Seniors’ Week just around the corner, more of our residents may attend those functions.

“The minibus will definitely help us to continue providing quality care to our residents.”

Reverend Barry Dunsmore added: “Christ Church, Warwick, through its Outreach Ministry and an extremely generous donor, is delighted to present The Lorraine Rest Home in Warwick Parish with a new minibus.

“Residents of The Home attend Christ Church once a month and we hope this new transport will help with their many outings and activities.

“As a church we value our ongoing relationship with The Lorraine Rest Home and it will be a privilege to continue this help in the years to come.”

Colorful graphics on both sides depict seniors surrounded by images representing a few of the various ‘out-of-the-Home’ activities available to them, including seniors bus tours, boccie (lawn bowling), parades, visiting parks, and more.

Artwork was designed and illustrated by Allana Simons, a council member, and design studio entrepreneur. 

The concept was developed to make the bus special to the residents, helping to increase their excitement about going out, and meaningful to the public by demonstrating that seniors residing at Lorraine Rest Home are actively involved in the community, and do have fun.