A $50,000 donation from Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty on Tuesday pushed the North Idaho State Veterans Home in Post Falls over the top to buy a wheelchair-accessible bus. 

“It’s fantastic. It’s just fantastic,” said Len Crosby, treasurer of the North Idaho Veterans Assistance League. “This bus is part of what we do.” 

He said in less than a year, they raised nearly $200,000 to buy the specialized bus that is expected to arrive next week. Crosby said $80,000 came from community donations, $50,000 from Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty, while the Idaho Veterans Assistance League donated the balance. 

“People have been so generous in supporting us,” Crosby said. 

The new mini-bus will have a ramp that will make it easy for veterans using wheelchairs to board and deboard.

It will have other features, including racks to hold walkers and oxygen tanks, but most importantly, it means veterans can comfortably attend events, visit other service organizations and be part of social functions.

“This bus will allow them to drive their motorized vehicle right on,” Crosby said. “It’s got everything we need."

He said the home’s current van relies on a hoist and can’t handle large, motorized wheelchairs. He said 70% of those in the veterans home are disabled and have mobility issues. Transportation remains one of the greatest obstacles veterans often face.

"Without a fully accessible vehicle, many residents struggle to attend medical appointments, participate in community outings, or enjoy special events," according to a flyer from the North Idaho State Veterans Home in Post Falls. "Too often, they must miss opportunities that bring joy, social interaction and improved well-being."

The bus is expected to be delivered to the Division of Veteran Services in Boise, where final details will be completed. It should arrive in Post Falls next week. 

Crosby said Gary Schneidmiller, founder of Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty, has long supported veterans. 

“It's right in line with the family’s roots, serving veterans,” he said. 

He said Gary Schneidmiller’s father, Manuel “Manny” Schneidmiller, served in World War II. He was awarded the Bronze Star for heroism, the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat, a Marine Corps Presidential Unit Citation, the American Service medal, the American Campaign medal and the Asiatic Pacific Campaign medal. 

He was also awarded the World War II Victory medal, was discharged at Farragut in 1946 and continued to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve and retired as a lieutenant colonel. 

Manny Schneidmiller passed away in 1997. American Legion Manuel Schneidmiller Post 154 in Rathdrum bears his name. 

Crosby said he and other veterans were very appreciative for the support of Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty. 

“It means the world to us,” he said.