Learn to ride the bus with The Salvation Army Lawson Ministries

To promote independence for individuals with disabilities, The Salvation Army Lawson Ministries in Hamilton is restarting an innovative program to help those with disabilities learn to use the Hamilton transit system.

The Community Access to Transportation (CAT) program, funded by the City of Hamilton, was established in 2012 and is firing up again as we slowly ease out of Ontario’s pandemic restrictions.

“We teach people with disabilities, 16 years of age and older, in Hamilton to take the bus independently and safely,” said Kelly Patton, the program coordinator for CAT.

Lawson Ministries wants to sign up more clients and increase awareness of the program that has trained almost 350 people since its start nine years ago.

“CAT is a free and easy way for individuals to learn how to get around the city and feel part of the community,” Patton said.

Since the onset of COVID-19, the training has been virtual and includes fun online games and activities, the basics of riding a bus, using the Presto pay system, trip planning, personal safety, safety during COVID, and problem solving.

Lawson Ministries started the program in 2012 to provide clients with another transportation option other than the door-to-door DARTS accessible bus system.

“We provided the original program to help individuals with developmental disabilities feel part of the community by providing independence and new ways of mobility,” said Lisa Schumph, Director of Operations for Lawson Ministries.

Plans for additional Lawson Ministry programs include training on the safe use of GO Transit and assisting those with visual or auditory impairments.

“We’re very committed to our community’s needs and envision a community in which everyone belongs,” said Deanna Finch-Smith, executive director of Lawson Ministries. “We will continue to provide support and develop essential programs for individuals with developmental disabilities.”

Lawson Ministries can train 20 people a week in the CAT program and it is completely free. For more information or to sign up for the training program, check out www.lawsonministries.org/cat.

By Chris McGregor