Vandalism to Care Van Puts Valuable Service out of Commission for Two Days

Care Van service was interrupted this week as the vehicle underwent repairs following a vandalism incident over the long Memorial Day weekend.

According to Enumclaw Regional Healthcare Foundation director Rene' Popke, the van was parked in the lot between the library and Railroad Street when someone threw a piece of concrete through and shattered the windshield.

Van service was suspended Tuesday, May 29 and today, Wednesday, May 30 as the window was replaced. Twelve rides were affected.

"Unfortunately, the destructive acts that the person or persons caused, directly affected Plateau residents that depend on the free service to access their health care appointments," Popke said in a statement.

Service is expected to resume Thursday, May 31. The Care Van is a free service for anyone who has demonstrated a transportation hardship for health care transporting needs -- it's not restricted to seniors. The van operates Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To schedule a ride, call 360-284-2444.

The Care Van resumed service on the Plateau this past March 5 after it was halted in August 2010 while Franciscan Health System transitioned into managing what is now St. Elizabeth Hospital - formerly Enumclaw Regional Hospital. The Enumclaw Regional Healthcare Foundation operates the service solely through support from donations and grants. To make a donation, visit www.enumclawrhf.org and click on the 'Donate' button; or call the foundation at 360-802-3206. The office is located at 1174 Myrtle Street in downtown Enumclaw.

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