Portage Handivan receives $40K for new van

The Community Foundation of Portage and District (CFPD) has awarded $40,000 to Portage Handivan to help expand its fleet and meet growing demand for transportation services.

The funding will allow the organization to purchase a new van to support local residents who rely on accessible transit for medical appointments and community travel.

Portage la Prairie Handivan currently operates two vehicles, including a 14-passenger bus that stays within town and another that travels out of town to transport residents to medical appointments.

“We are looking to add to our fleet because we noticed last year that the numbers are increasing, and the out-of-town bus is, we can't meet the demand for the out-of-town bus,” notes Terrie Porter, executive director of Portage Handivan.

Porter continues, “They have to find alternate ways to get to their appointments. That's why we were adding to our fleet because it's in high demand right now, and I can't see anything changing in the future.”

The new vehicle will likely have six or seven seats and space for a single wheelchair.

The additional van will also make it easier to maintain the current fleet.

“The nice thing about the third vehicle, we'll be able to get the repairs and the safeties and everything else that needs to be done on those other vans when the time comes. It shuts us right down when we don't have that other vehicle to be able to do the duties that were promised,” she continues.

Portage Handivan charges $6.50 each way for in-town trips, with a 10-round pass that includes one free ride.

The new van, notes Porter, will be designed for one wheelchair, providing a reliable option for individual riders.

Portage la Prairie Handivan is supported by province of Manitoba, the City of Portage la Prairie and RM of Portage la Prairie. 

The service has provided service to 3,590 individuals, including 1,647 wheelchairs, so far this year, up until the end of September.

The Community Foundation of Portage and District continues to support organizations that enhance accessibility, safety, and quality of life for residents across the region. Residents interested in applying for future funding can look forward to the Spring 2026 intake.