Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais and Handi-Bus driver Margaret Rahn
For 34 years this coming May, Margaret Rahn has been making friends while driving the Handi-Bus in and around Pembroke.
The Pembroke and LV Handi-Bus is a fully accessible, door-to-door transit service that helps people with disabilities get where they need to go. Riders use the service for medical appointments, grocery shopping and adult day programs among other daily and community needs.
The main reason for Rahn’s longevity is simple:
When initial talk of the Pembroke Transit System began just over 5 years ago, there was concern that the new service might sideline the Handi-Bus or at least pose a major impediment for growth of the business. Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais who is a staunch proponent of The Handi-Bus tells myFM that it appears that there has been little if any effect thus far:
Dan Callaghan, Manager of the service for as long he and anyone else can remember says that the buses in his fleet have travelled a lot further than most would imagine over the years:
According to Callaghan, there were a total of 7278 trips booked in 2024 in relation to 5442 trips booked in 2023 which represents a 33% increase in overall usage. Total trips this far in 2025 are at roughly 5910 which shows that despite the new transit service coming into effect, Handi-Bus appears to be holding it’s own.
To Callaghan, much like Margaret it’s far more than a job; it’s a passion:
The best way to book is by calling the office number at 613 735-6998 or by email pembrokehandibus@hotmail.com.
They do ask where possible to book 24 hours in advance. An answering service will take your call after regular office hours that is available 7 days a week and you do talk to a real person not an app or a recording.
(Written By: Richard Evans)