Newly purchased bus unveiled
GORE BAY—Doug Smith of Manitoulin Transport and the Manitoulin Group of Companies has been instrumental in the success of the Angel Bus, with his and his family foundation’s continued support, including providing toward the purchase of the newest, third, bus. The Angel Bus provides transportation to people who need accessible transportation on Western Manitoulin.
“In September 2014 I met with Mr. Smith to see what his thoughts would be on the viability of having a bus that would provide accessible transportation to those on Western Manitoulin,” said Sandy Cook, of the Angel Bus operating committee. “His insight and business acumen helped us decide to go ahead and look at getting the first bus. Whether from Manitoulin Transport, New North Fuels, or the Douglas A. Smith Family Foundation, the Angel Bus would not be thriving if it weren’t for him. Mr. Smith and the Manitoulin Group of Companies as well as Lafarge have been instrumental in getting the first bus and have continued their support as we unveil this newest bus.”
“This 2022 Ford Transit T-350 is our third Angel Bus,” said Ms. Cook. “The feverish success of the crowd sources funding in January to finalize this acquisition absolutely astounded me. I am not a social media person, so I was simply amazed! Never underestimate what a big-hearted Island can do.”
“This bus is necessary and provides a great service for residents,” stated Mr. Smith when asked why he thinks the Angel Bus is so important and why he continues to support the bus. “Thank you to Sandy for all the work that you do.”
“You help to make it all happen,” replied Ms.Cook.
Ms. Cook explained since the first Angel Bus outing in April 2015, “we average over 100 outings per year (119 in 2022), primarily medical appointments, but also family gatherings and social outings. Gore Bay Manitoulin Lodge Auxiliary Inc. owns the Angel Bus and the entire organization is run by volunteers.
“Shirley Farquhar is the Angel Bus dispatcher, and we currently have 13 drivers with four more having signed up from the recent round of volunteer fairs (hosted by Western Manitoulin Economic Development) held in the West End of Manitoulin Island,” continued Ms. Cook.
“Our annual sponsors who advertise on the Angel Bus cover the annual operating costs of roughly $20,000,” said Ms. Cook. “Most of our signage sponsors have been with us from the beginning. A huge shout-out to each of them for their commitment and supports. One-thousand dollars per year keeps their logos on the sides of the Angel Bus. The Manitoulin Group of Companies and Lafarge are the anchors of our dream team.”
Mr. Cook explained, “Beacon Images just finished the signage on the bus, and it looks fantastic. The new Angel Bus was first used in late February and has been taking people smoothly and quietly on their outings. The bus is smaller than the last one, so it’s taken our drivers some getting used to, but by all accounts, it’s fabulous. Never underestimate what a big-hearted Island can do.”
