Cancer Council WA has received almost $70,000 in funding to purchase a new Transport to Treatment bus, thanks to the support of Lotterywest and the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation.
Cancer Council WA Supportive Care Director, Melanie Marsh, said the grants means Cancer Council WA can now retire its ageing transport vehicle and ensure the future of its Transport to Treatment service for years to come.
"We are so grateful to both Lotterywest and the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation for their contributions and ongoing commitment to improving the lives of West Australians affected by cancer," Ms Marsh said.
"About one third of people diagnosed with cancer in WA live outside our major cities and must travel long distances to access treatment.
"The new 12-seater Toyota HiAce bus, complete with accessibility modifications, will help ensure they can get to their appointments safely, on time and with less emotional and financial stress."
Ms Marsh said The Transport to Treatment service operates from Crawford and Milroy Lodges and provides free transport to help regional cancer patients staying in the accommodation facilities get to their treatment without the worry of city driving and the added cost of parking.
"Each year, the program provides more than 6000 free transfers for around 500 regional patients and 220 carers staying at Crawford and Milroy Lodges in Perth," Ms Marsh said.
"This service is entirely funded by community donations and grants, so we are very thankful to both Lotterywest and the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation for their contributions."
