When Yohan Mathai saw an elderly woman fall while getting out of a taxi, he was frustrated he wasn’t able to help her.
This gave him the idea of creating a taxi service centred on care and compassion. In March this year, Canberra-based Care Taxi was born.
“The difference between Care Taxi and a normal taxi is that we create a personal connection with the client,” he said. “We wait with them while they go to Mass or appointments, but we only charge them for the time they are in the car.”
Drivers are trained to give personal care and the service is available to anyone who needs help going to medical appointments, shopping, school drop-offs or church.
Debbie, a St Christopher’s Cathedral parishioner, was eager to re-engage with the community after feeling the effects of coronavirus restrictions and not being able to drive.
“I started using Care Taxi as I needed transport to go to church,” she said. “Once I got to know the drivers they knew exactly where to drop me off within short walking distance and would assist me in getting my walker in and out of the boot.”
Yohan is passionate about helping the vulnerable and being a friendly face to those who are feeling isolated and alone.
“As a driver with Care Taxi you are able to be involved and support your client with whatever help they need,” he said.
To book a taxi, call 0451 734 334 or email [email protected]
