Councilmember Dunn turns over “retired” County van to Vision House of Renton

July 9, 2013

Summary

Story

Renton’s Vision House, which provides transitional housing, support services and child care for homeless mothers and their children as well as assisting homeless men recovering from substance abuse, will be the new home for one of King County’s newest “retirees.”

On July 9, Metropolitan King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn delivered to Vision House a retired Metro vans for the organization.

“Vision House has been a positive influence on women and children in the Renton area for a number of years,” said Reagan Dunn. “Handing over this retired van to help them successfully do their work is an honor and I am very pleased to support this fine organization.”

Sarah Butler Wills, Vision House Family Services Manager stated, “The van is great! This is going to make it so much easier on the kids, getting them to and from their local activities safely. We weren’t expecting such a nice vehicle. We greatly appreciate this gift!”

The retired vans have been part of Metro Transit’s vanpool fleet for at least six years and have reached the end of their service life. When the vans reach this age, they are considered surplus. The vehicles that are not donated are sold.

Since 1996, the County Council has been donating retired vans from Metro’s Vanpool program to local nonprofit organizations to provide transportation for the disabled, low-income, young adults, and senior citizens. Governments, agencies and organizations that receive the vans must meet specific requirements.

The vanpool program provides mobility for a diverse array of King County residents, supports the positive work of various local organizations, and relieves traffic congestion by reducing the need for single-occupancy vehicles. Interested organizations can contact Councilmember Dunn 206-296-1009 or reagan.dunn@kingcounty.gov for more information on applying for a vehicle.



Councilmember Reagan Dunn is joined by staff and clients of Vision House at today’s delivery of a retired Metro Vanpool Van for the agency.
Back Row (l-r) Michelle Warsing, child advocate (Crouching), Sarah Butler Wills, family services manager, John and Susan Camerer, founders, Vision House
Front Row (l-r) Cadence Chavez (8), Madison Chavez (8), Jimena Medina (9), Jose medina (7)