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 The breakdown solidified in everyone's mind at the center
that a new bus is needed, and it is needed sooner rather
than later.
Dalpoas, the director of the senior center, reported that
in this case, the fund drive's cup is already half full if
the other half of funding can be found.
The Oasis board was notified by the Woods Foundation that
they would donate in-kind donations up to half of the needed
$52,844 for a new vehicle.
That means if the senior center can receive donations
from the community totaling $26,442, then the Woods
Foundation will match that sum.
The in-kind donation is made possible by the generosity
of Robert J. Woods and Joan Woods through the creation of
the Woods Foundation.
Although donations are encouraged from the community and
gratefully accepted, The Oasis plans fundraisers as well.
A van benefit is scheduled for Oct. 29 at the senior
center. Peggy of Peggy's Place is doing all the cooking with
the help of her husband -- "One of the Fat Boys" barbecue. The
menu is half a barbecued chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy,
green beans, bread, and a piece of pumpkin pie. Drive
through the alley for to-go orders without leaving your car,
or dine inside the comfort of the senior center. The ticket
price is $8, and tickets will be available at the center or
from any board member.
Since 2001 the current van has assisted over 7,000
seniors with rides to and from activities that included
educational trips to Gettysburg, Pa., to tour the Civil War
site, to St. Louis to see the Titanic display, to Chicago to
see the King Tut display, and to Springfield to visit the
Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield and the Museum of
Funeral Customs, to name just a few. The bus has also been
used for recreational trips to Branson, Mo., and other day
trips to locations in and near central Illinois.
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The transportation program conducted by The Oasis has
been widely accepted and used by seniors. Statistics show a
growing need for this type of program well into the future
for another generation of seniors who are about to come of
age. The center wants to plan now for those seniors' safety
and comfort when traveling as part of the activities and
educational events sponsored. For many seniors, the bus is
their only transportation available for such trips, as they
no longer drive. The Oasis van provides many a means to stay
active and independent.
Individuals or businesses wishing to contribute to the
bus campaign can mail donations to The Oasis at 501 Pulaski
St., Lincoln, IL 62656. Donations are tax-deductible.
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About The Oasis
[Text from file received; LDN]
Past related article
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