MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County has some exciting news! The local veteran transportation program, called Manatee Moves Veterans, is already making a significant impact. Launched earlier this year, this initiative provides free rides for verified veterans. They can use the service for medical and dental appointments, as well as visits to the county’s Veterans Services office.
Commissioner Mike Rahn, a Marine Corps veteran, highlighted the program’s importance. He stated, “Manatee Moves Veterans shows how local government can truly help people. By removing transportation barriers, we honor our veterans and ensure they get the care they need.”
As of September 10, the program has offered over 1,119 rides. According to Sarah Brown, the director of Community and Veterans Services, this rapid uptake shows a real need for services like this. “We want every veteran in Manatee County to know this service is available and reliable,” she added.
Veterans can schedule up to two one-way trips daily within county limits. To register, they need to call 941-745-3795 and provide their DD-214 or discharge papers. Those without their documents can get assistance from staff.
Once registered, veterans can book rides anytime through the Manatee Moves app, found on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Rides can be reserved up to three days in advance or scheduled on demand. Phone bookings are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
An interesting fact is that this isn’t just a local effort. Similar programs have sprung up across the country. For example, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reported that transportation services are essential for veterans seeking medical care, particularly in rural areas. A 2020 survey found that nearly 30% of veterans missed appointments due to transportation issues.
For more information on the program, visit the county’s website.
While the service is crucial for our veterans, it also promotes a sense of community. When our heroes can access healthcare easily, it reflects well on us as a society. Let’s continue to support these programs that honor their sacrifices.
Source link
Manatee Moves Veterans program,Free rides for veterans Manatee County,Veterans transportation service Florida,Manatee County veterans health care access,Manatee County veterans services transportation
