The need to provide a van for residents at Thornton Park Retirement Village has united two community groups in a common cause.

The Quota Club of Ōpōtiki has donated proceeds from its main annual fund raiser, The Book Fest to Friends of Ōpōtiki Seniors, a group which was in the process of raising money to purchase a wheelchair friendly 11-seat van already located in Ōpōtiki.

The Friends of Ōpōtiki Seniors had about $25,000 towards their goal, needing about $50,000 in total to cover the purchase of the vehicle plus insurance and running costs.

Quota Club spokesperson Lois Watson said such a van was a clear need in the community and her group were delighted to lend a hand.

“In a town this size everyone knows everyone so we’re well aware of the problems created by isolation and lack of adequate transportation,” Ms Watson said.

“At present, Thornton Park does not have a van to run people to-and-from medical appointments or to evacuate them in the event of a civil defence emergency.

“It is clear to us that providing such a vehicle is a pressing need there and, in the community, at large.”

A spokesperson for the Friends of Ōpōtiki Community Seniors, Rhondda Anstis, said the decision has been made to purchase an existing van from Peria House where it was now under-utilised.

“This vehicle would be perfect for providing transportation, but it is only being used about once a week. We see a wider need than just using it for Thornton Park residents.  We want to serve all relevant populations, meaning Thornton Park, Peria House, plus elderly people living alone who are isolated and lonely.”

Ms Anstis’s group was motivated by having parents or relatives in Thornton Park and seeing their predicament.

“We are touched that the Quota Club has donated the proceeds of its last Book Fest to this cause and hope other businesses and individuals will also come to the party.

“It’s clear the cost of travelling to Whakatāne for medical treatment is just too much for many of our elderly and disabled people. Above all, there is the sense of loneliness – a vehicle like this can provide the first step to a fuller life, by helping these folk get out to meet others and make friends.”