A new vehicle has been ordered to replace the specialised vehicle to drive wheelchair users to and from services and events within the community and medical appointments.

Chief executive officer (CEO) of the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group Inc, Anna Burley said they upgrade the current van and had estimated they needed $85,000 to purchase a new vehicle.

A successful grant application of close to $38,000 was received from the Equipment and Modification grant through the NSW Government, Family and Community, Ageing, Disabilities and Home Care for the vehicle modification.

The only catch was they could only use it toward the purchase of a vehicle, so the challenge was to raise the additional $47,000.

Fundraising was kicked of in November 2015 by the Friends of St Paul Anglican Church with the Cottage Ball, followed by the Majestic Store, operated by the Baptist Church, donating a sizeable amount. 

“The energy and efforts of Central Hotel at Stroud and the Stroud community made an outstanding contribution with their fundraising efforts being close to $14,000,” senior support worker of the Cottage, Felicity Whittaker said.

They have received a $9000 Stronger Communities grant from David Gillespie, member for Lyne, as well as donations from service clubs, community organisations and personal donations.

Some were in the memory of loved ones that have passed away within the community.  

“The fundraising efforts by the community was phenomenal as well as the focus of BWNG staff to get this vehicle to happen in a relatively short period of time is amazing and impressive -  but I knew it could be done because this community is special,” Ms Burley said. 

“The most recent donation from the Gloucester Patchwork Group of $1500, proceeds of a quilt raffle made it possible to get really close to our goal to replace the vehicle and BWNG board decision was made to proceed with the purchase.”     

The modified Kia Carnival is expected by February 2017.