NorWest Community Health Centres' Care Bus and staff - (Supplied Photo via NorWest Community Health Centres)

NorWest Community Health Centres’ Care Bus is gearing up to return for the winter.

The program helps supply Thunder Bay’s vulnerable population with essentials and facilitates transportation to warming centres and local shelters.

NorWest, in collaboration with the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, is leading the initiative.

“The Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship recognizes the positive impact the Care Bus has on our most vulnerable,” said the Director of Housing at Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, Katie Bortolin. “Partnering with NorWest CHC to ensure this vital service continues while offering front-line support aligns with our vision to uplift urban Indigenous community members with life journey services.”

According to NorWest, the Care Bus served 10,801 residents last year over 125 days, marking an average of 86 people per day.

“The Care Bus continues to be a service that is well utilized in our community as we continue to witness many individuals experiencing poverty, homelessness, food insecurity and financial strain,” explained NorWest CEO Juanita Lawson. “The Care Bus staff focus on ensuring safety for the most vulnerable and demonstrate this through their ongoing care, compassion and supporting connections to vital supports.”

The District Of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board provides funding to run the program.

“Without their invaluable support, the upcoming 2024-2025 Care Bus season would not be possible,” added Lawson.

Staff underwent training to work on the bus on Friday.

The bus is starting service for the season on Monday.