The new electric Renault will drive elderly Church members, and the congregation is working on many other innovations

The municipality of Cerkvenjak has introduced a new electric Renault Scenic E-tech vehicle to support its Prostofer project, which provides free transportation for elderly residents who cannot drive themselves. The initiative, launched in March 2022, has already facilitated over 30 trips this year alone, helping seniors reach medical appointments, government offices, and local shops with the assistance of volunteers. This move follows a decision made by the local pensioners' association in 2021, which recognized the need for such a service given the aging population and the many younger residents working in neighboring Austria or distant cities like Maribor and Murska Sobota. The existing vehicle used for these trips was a Ford C-Max from 2007, which had become outdated and showed signs of wear and tear. According to officials, the condition of the car posed risks during potential accidents or traffic issues, making the transport of elderly citizens less safe. To address this, the municipality partnered with two project collaborators, GT Breznik and the Cerkvenjak Pensioners Association, to develop the “Active and Mobile in Cerkvenjak” project. They successfully applied for funding through the LAS Ovtar Slovenian Mountains fund and the European Social Fund (ESRF). The comprehensive project aims to enhance accessibility, mobility, and recreation for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, sick, and disabled. It contributes to urban area organization, influences transport choice, and promotes energy-efficient travel methods, thereby supporting sustainable mobility and environmental protection. In addition to the new electric car, the municipality plans to install a parking space for people with disabilities and set up urban infrastructure around the municipal building. Inside the building, tactile floor markings and equipment for hearing-impaired individuals will be installed to improve access. GT Breznik has purchased two electric bicycles to complement its hospitality and tourism offerings, while the pensioners' association will acquire 80 reflective strips to improve the safety and mobility of their members. The new Renault Scenic E-tech, valued at €35,000, will serve both the Prostofer project and the municipality's broader needs. Officially handed over during the opening of a new parking lot, the car is expected to significantly reduce the financial burden on the municipality, with contributions coming from a €7,200 subsidy from Borzen and €22,000 from the project’s funding. Mayor Marjan Žmavc noted that the municipality would contribute approximately €6,000 towards the cost of the vehicle. The municipality has further plans to construct a canopy and establish an electric charging station. Additionally, they intend to organize a course on road traffic regulations (CPP) for older residents. Participants will learn about recent developments in traffic and road safety, updating their knowledge of traffic rules, particularly concerning the needs of elderly citizens. These initiatives reflect the municipality's commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents, especially those who are most vulnerable.