When refresher courses, reasonable limits, and safe routes no longer seem enough, the time has come to retire from driving. Hopefully, the older driver will have discussed this possibility with trusted family members, investigated and weighed options, and made informed decisions long before this moment. Even with good planning and preparation, however, giving up the keys is always painful. It marks the end of a stage in life and it may provoke fear of becoming stranded or housebound. One way to allay some of the fear is to explore public transportation, such as the Bugbee Senior Center van.
      The Bugbee Senior Center provides van transportation to and from the Center for residents of Hartford and Norwich. There are also two scheduled shopping trips each week. Van transportation is also a possibility for people needing transportation to medical appointments. When van transportation is not possible, we can often explore other options, such as transportation by a volunteer. We prefer to have 48 hours notice if we need to arrange medical transportation; to come to the Center, just call us before 9AM on the day you want to come in. For more information, call us at 295-9068.

The following  people have contributed to our "new van fund":  Regina Murray, Bernice Ballard, Helga Alexander, Arlene Hutchins, Clair and Joyce Lovell, Eleanor Smith, Jean Cumby, Sandra Smith, Lucille Remick, Giana Bergonzi, Gen Gomo, Fran Mannarino, Evelyn Gravatt, Jeannette Albanese, Freya Von Moltke, George W. Smith, Jr., Ruth Buzzell, Vivian Best, Fred Berg, Carol Miller and the Bugbee Cribbage Players. Thanks for your support! We expect to take delivery of the new van in the very near future.