Do you or does someone you know need a drive to essential services like medical appointments and getting groceries? Are you interested in becoming a volunteer driver in your community? The New Brunswick Community Transportation Service may be a fit.
The New Brunswick Community Transportation Service is a provincial network of non-profit organizations that offer affordable, accessible transportation through volunteer drivers. The most common reasons for someone needing a drive are to get to:
- Medical appointments, including longer rides to other regions for care
- Government offices
- Grocery store, pharmacy, bank
- Workplace and training
The local organization may also authorize other types of rides on a case-by-case basis. The services offered may differ from region to region. Most of the services are provided during regular business hours, and clients are typically asked to book a ride 24 to 48 hours in advance. Last-minute calls are handled on a case-by-case basis.
The goal of this program is to help New Brunswickers access services, amenities and opportunities that will allow them to stay healthy, remain in their homes longer and become more self-sufficient. Along with providing transportation, the New Brunswick Community Transportation Service also fosters community connection. The program tries to make a good match between the volunteer drivers and their clients.
Who qualifies?
Anybody who needs transportation to access essential services is eligible.
How do I apply?
To become a user
Contact your local community transportation service (contacts below). You will be asked for some basic personal information to understand your needs and circumstances, and to match you with the best driver(s).
To become a volunteer driver
Volunteer drivers are the backbone of this program. A few hours of your time each week or month can make a difference in your community. The volunteer program features:
- Flexible scheduling: volunteer as much or as little as you want
- No long-term commitment
- Use your vehicle, donate your time
- Reimbursement for mileage
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, contact your local community transportation service (contacts below). Volunteers drivers must meet all screening criteria, including a criminal record check and Dept. of Social Development check. They must also provide proof of a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration and liability insurance. The application process includes a friendly interview with the director of the service.
To see a provincial map of local community transportation service providers, click here.
COVID-19 Protocols
To ensure the safety and security of service users and volunteers, there are a number of COVID-19 protocols and procedures in place. They follow Public Health’s colour-coded phases, which indicate the level of COVID-19 safety restrictions needed. Click here to see the latest update on current safety precautions and procedures.
FAQs
How much does your service cost?
Each drive’s cost is calculated on the number of kilometres and the client’s ability to pay. It’s much less than a commercial ride.
Can more than one person come with me?
Yes, but all passengers, including children, must be registered.
How do I qualify as a client?
A community non-profit agency or organization can refer you, or you can apply as an individual.
What qualifies as a driving request?
Drives to food banks, medical appointments, chemo or radiation therapy, counselling sessions, recreation, shopping, banking, work, training, etc.
Are the volunteer drivers screened?
Volunteers drivers must meet all screening criteria, including a criminal record check and social development check. They must also provide proof of a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration and liability insurance.
Is it safe during COVID?
Volunteers drivers must follow all COVID protocols and procedures. All vehicles are sanitized between drives. Both the client and volunteer driver must wear a mask. If a client does not have a mask, the driver will provide one.
