Porter County Aging and Community Services will continue extended service hours of its transportation program after the recent budget approval and launching of a new ad initiative.
PCACS Executive Director Bruce Lindner said the agency will continue to operate seven buses 10 hours a day as it has for the last few years.
“We originally were running six buses eight hours a day. Three years ago, we increased our service with the help of grant money. We have been able to continue this level of service because of the ongoing support of the County Council and County Commissioners,” he said.
PCACS also has begun an ad marketing initiative as an additional way to support its transportation service and related fuel costs.
With the help of Clean Zone Marketing, the buses are sporting a new look with wrapped advertisements from community supporters: Porter Regional Hospital, Addison Pointe Health & Rehab Center in Chesterton and St. Mary Medical Center’s new Valparaiso Health Center, which is opening in February 2013.
“We saw a similar initiative launch locally about a year ago with Valparaiso’s V-Line buses,” Lindner said. “After receiving permission from NIRPC, we now have all of our buses wrapped either on the driver or passenger side or the back of the bus.
“This is money we wouldn’t have had otherwise. We are always looking for ways to help pay for fuel. It is a benefit to us and a way for local businesses to help support our vital transportation service in Porter County.”
PCACS’ transportation program is a county-wide door-to-door service. To schedule a ride, contact the transportation office at 462-4302.
PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.
For more information, visit www.portercountyacs.org