The Penticton chapter of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Wheels of Hope program is looking for volunteer drivers. Anyone with a valid driver’s license and a vehicle can volunteer to provide transportation to cancer patients who need support.

The Wheels of Hope program offers free rides to cancer patients to reach their medical appointments. Since some registered drivers take vacation during the summer season, the new volunteers will help keep the service running smoothly. Although there is no urgent shortage, the organization is inviting caring citizens to sign up and drive cancer patients to their appointments in places like Oliver, Summerland, and Kelowna.

The Wheels of Hope program ensures that cancer patients don’t take unnecessary risks of driving themselves to appointments. The volunteers need to give two to three days each month in a flexible schedule, choosing when and where they want to drive.

The requirements to sign up as a volunteer include a valid driver’s license with three or fewer demerit points, a reliable smoke-free car, and passing a thorough background check. Drivers use their vehicles and get paid 45 cents per kilometre or receive a tax receipt. Since the 1970s, the program has supported cancer patients with the help of volunteers across all ages and backgrounds, united by a shared goal of supporting people during tough times.

To become a volunteer driver in the Wheels of Hope program, you can visit Cancer.ca, email volunteer@cancer.ca, or call toll-free at 1-888-939-3333.

Source: Keith Lacey, Castanet