Wheels for Hope lends 50th vehicle

• Minister hands over modified vehicle to help Success family

• Vehicle modified and provided under Wheels for Hope program

• Commuter bus is the 50th vehicle modified for person with disability

• State Government $1.6m funding over four years supports expanded fleet

A Success family's life is set to change after being presented with keys to a modified Toyota HiAce Commuter Bus today by Disability Services Minister Helen Morton.

The vehicle is the fiftieth to be modified by the Western Australian Motor Industry Foundation and lent free of charge under the Wheels for Hope program.

Mrs Morton handed over the keys to the vehicle to Caroline and Robert Hughes to transport their son Nathan, 22, who has cerebral palsy and uses a powered wheelchair.

The Minister said the Wheels for Hope program have been changing lives since it was set up by the foundation in 2008.

The State Government provided $1.6million of funding to the foundation in 2011-2012 to be split over four years.

This support has enabled this important program to expand its fleet and assist more families to gain mobility and have a better chance of contributing to, and taking part in, community life.

"Today the Hughes family is the recipient of the Wheels for Hope program's 50th vehicle, and because some vehicles are lent more than once, this is also the 60th time the program has lent a modified vehicle.

"This charity organisation, which is supported by the WA automotive industry, is giving families with a son, daughter or parent with disability the opportunity to more fully participate in community life. 

"For some, it is very difficult or impossible to transport a family member to medical appointments, community events or to visit friends and family. A modified vehicle opens up a range of opportunities to engage in activities others may take for granted," Mrs Morton said.

       Fact File

• Through its Wheels for Hope program, the WA Motor Industry Foundation lends vehicles to families with a family member with disability.

• The Disability Services Commission refers suitable people to the program.

• The program aligns with the Count Me In vision - see www.disability.wa.gov.au

• For more about the foundation visit www.motorindustryfoundation.com.au

Minister's office - 6552 6900