Shropshire-based charity The Friendly Bus, a community transport service in Broseley, Much Wenlock and surrounding areas, has been awarded £7,000 by the VINCI UK Foundation.
The charity, nominated by Freyssinet’s Framework Coordinator Ginette Pardoe, aims to reduce loneliness and isolation by promoting mobility for vulnerable community members. Providing opportunities for social interaction and independence, its services are relied upon for various activities, from trips to the supermarket and medical appointments, to summer seaside excursions.
VINCI businesses in the UK and ROI including Freyssinet, VINCI Concessions, VINCI Construction UK, Bachy Soletanche and NUVIA UK, are proud contributors to the VINCI UK Foundation. Since its inception in 2016, the Foundation has assisted a total of 289 charities and community projects with nearly £1.6 million in grants and the invaluable practical support from its employees.
The Friendly Bus has been operating since 2002 and is used by over 800 registered passengers in the local area. The VINCI UK Foundation grant will go towards the charity’s ‘Buy-a-Bus’ campaign to purchase a fully accessible 16-seater minibus to fulfil the increasing demand for its services.
Marie Monk-Hawksworth, Chief Executive Officer for The Friendly Bus said: “We are really grateful to Ginette and Freyssinet, for nominating us for this grant. It has made a substantial contribution to our ‘buy a bus’ campaign, which hopes to replace two, possibly three of our old minibuses.
“Having driven to many clubs, social outings or shopping trips, they’re now costing us vast amounts in breakdowns and repairs – leaving some of our passengers without any way of getting out and about when they are off the road. We are also pleased both Ginette and her colleague Clare White will be supporting us to promote our fundraising campaign, which will be a big help.”
For more information about The Friendly Bus here.