Newcomers to Burnaby and New Westminster will have less stress when it comes to transportation thanks to a new partnership between Evo and the Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC).
Under the partnership, newcomers including immigrants, refugees and students accessing services through ISSofBC will be able to access a free Evo Car Share membership and 100 free driving minutes.
According to a Angus Reid study, 31 per cent of newcomers have found buying or leasing a vehicle is one of the most difficult tasks when arriving.
“We are delighted to partner with Evo to provide our newcomer clients with affordable and convenient car-sharing options," ISSofBC spokesperson Rebecca Irani said in a news release.
"As a settlement sector leader and innovator, Immigrant Services Society of BC is here to welcome newcomers and support them as they overcome challenges in their journeys to settle and thrive in B.C."
The two organizations say the partnership is the first of its kind between a sector agency and major car share provider that will address three key areas for newcomers in B.C.:
- Enhanced access to employment: Reliable transportation to reach job interviews, training programs, and workplaces, significantly widening their employment prospects
- Improved access to essential services: With better mobility to easily attend medical appointments, access educational programs, and other essential services
- Community engagement: Increased mobility enables newcomers to stay connected with community activities and social events, building essential social and support networks
“At Evo, we are always striving to help people get where they need to go and we’re proud to partner with the ISSofBC to ensure newcomers feel more welcome, connected, and mobile,” Director of Evo Car Share Amitis Khorsandi added.
“Evo is a big part of communities across the Lower Mainland and we’re glad that we can do our part to connect newcomers by offering free Evo memberships and driving minutes.”
