Three community organizations in Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert’s district were approved recently to receive a retired King County Metro van. Hopelink, Mt. Si Senior Center and the Boys and Girls Club of Redmond/Sammamish are the three recipients in District 3.

Late last month, the County Council unanimously approved the transfer of retired Metro vans to provide transportation assistance to local governments, community programs, senior citizens and young people.

“I’m so pleased that we are able to donate the vans to these very deserving groups who do so much for so many on the Eastside. I know the vans will be well-used for many years to serve seniors, boys and girls and low-income and disabled populations on the Eastside,” said Lambert.

Since 1996, the County Council has transferred more than 460 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.