The Owensboro-Daviess County Senior Community Center’s transportation service is a key way many members get around town to appointments, grocery stores, and to see their friends.
Executive Director Becky Barnhart said that center members have long utilized the service, and last week, 16 members were served rides throughout the community.
We’re providing anywhere from a minimum of two rides a day to up to six for different appointments and for different folks,” Barnhart said.
Barnhart said that these rides can be for members’ appointments at grocery stores or any location that they need to go to. She noted that this is beneficial for the rider to get to the necessary location and the families they rely upon.
She said that while they have provided the service since opening, Barnhart said that people are often unaware that they are hosting it. The organization has two transportation vans — one of which is wheelchair accessible.
The service is free to members, but a $1.50 donation each way is encouraged. Barnhart said the Center is reimbursed through federal and state dollars for the rides.
All rides must be scheduled 48 hours in advance. Doctors and family members can also call and schedule a ride on the rider’s behalf.
Barnhart said the rider would be dropped off at their desired location, and the driver would return when their appointment ended.
The roads will only be available in and around Davis County. Barnhart said that individuals need to file paperwork and become members of the senior center to begin receiving rides.
Being able to provide this service is something Barnhart is proud of for the clients. Given that many may not be able to drive themselves or get a ride from someone, this opens up more mobility for seniors throughout the community.
“If it helps seniors and it helps their families, then that’s what we’re here for,” Barnhart said.
