Keith Braaksma is the new face behind the Glenboro South Cypress Handi-Transit wheel
Change is rolling in for Glenboro South Cypress Handi-Transit riders as a new driver, Keith Braaksma, took the wheel earlier this month. While the community is eager to welcome him aboard, it’s also the perfect moment to recognize the dedication of Lee Fillion who faithfully served behind the wheel for over nine years before retiring this past June.
Filling Lee’s shoes proved no easy task in the months that followed. “We were fortunate to have Darryl Barr as a casual driver for July and part of August,” said Carol Marshall of Senior Independent Services. “Three local ladies also volunteered to drive to Cypress River for the senior meal, but there was no monthly trip to the casino in August.”
Handi-Transit is more than just a ride; it’s a vital lifeline for residents who rely on it to maintain their independence, attend medical appointments, visit friends and family, or simply stay connected to the community. For many seniors and residents with mobility challenges, the service ensures they remain active participants in daily life, preventing isolation and keeping the fabric of the community strong.
Braaksma, who also drives a school bus for the Prairie Spirit School Division, said that seeing firsthand how important a Handi-Transit service was to his mother-in-law while she was in a nursing home gave him the nudge to apply for the position. “I don’t know if people really think about how essential this service really is, I’m sure I never gave it much thought until I experienced it firsthand,” he said. “We are so very lucky that our local government recognizes and supports it through funding.”
Keith isn’t the only one who shares his appreciation for the service. Marg Berry, a local senior recently shared how relieved she and all her friends were to hear that the position was filled. “It was so nice to go on our Brandon trip once again, and Keith is so pleasant and helpful. We are sure grateful he took on the position!”
Bookings are on a “first come, first serve” basis and may do so by booking through Keith directly at 204-825-7666. Bookings for the Glenboro Personal Care Home are made through Tasha Nicholson while Carol Marshall takes care of bookings with the local Senior Independent Services.
Keith is available to Handi-Transit riders Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. And while he spends his early mornings and late afternoons shuttling kids to and from school, his mid-day hours are now dedicated to an older crowd. “I like to joke with the seniors that they better behave, they don’t want to be shown up by the kids!”
With Keith now behind the wheel, riders can look forward to the continuation of this essential service. His arrival not only ensures smooth operations with a great sense of humour and helping hand, it also reinforces the value the community places on accessible transportation – a service that truly keeps Glenboro South Cypress connected.
Keith Braaksma is the new Glenboro South Cypress Handi-Transit driver. PHOTO SUBMITTED
