The Carman Handi-Van began its service in 1986. It is one of the most cost-friendly handi-vans in Manitoba, but they are looking for support to keep it that way.

Mayor Brent Owen says, "the handi-van is pretty important to a lot of people in Carman as means of transportation."

Although primarily used by people who have difficulty with mobility, these services can be utilized in many ways. For example, in 2018 the Morden van assisted with a resident evacuation at the Manitou personal care home.

As there is no taxi service in Carman, it is also an important option for people who have no means of transportation in the harsh winters.

"The committee has tried to keep the pricing low because most people that use it are on a fixed income and don't have a lot of money, so it works out well for them," says Owen.

To keep the service running, the board will either have to continue fundraising through annual events like the Quiz Night which took place on February 15, or look at purchasing a new van.

Owen adds, "We're getting pricing on a new one and we're also looking at what it would possibly cost to lease or rent one . . . We're just looking at some different options to see what's more cost-effective and what makes sense."