CARIBOU, Maine — The Center for the Advancement of Rural Living has announced a record-breaking month for its County Area Ride Service. In the month of February, the program provided 97 rides for area residents 50 and over.
The CARS program connects community members who lack reliable transportation with trusted volunteer drivers who help them get where they need to go safely and on time. Transportation remains one of the biggest barriers to older adults in rural Maine, especially for medical care, food access, and socialization
Of the 97 rides, 59 were for medical needs, 26 for grocery or food pickups and the rest for other essential errands.
According to Sharon Berz, CARS program manager, volunteer drivers are the key to the program’s success. “Our volunteers provide hundreds of miles transporting older adults every month,” Berz said.
All volunteer drivers receive background checks and must provide a copy of a current drivers’ license, registration, and insurance. The CARS program provides the drivers with an additional rider to their auto insurance policy to cover any liability when providing rides. Drivers are also reimbursed for mileage. Volunteer drivers use their own vehicles to provide dependable transportation for individuals facing temporary or ongoing transportation challenges, including individuals with disabled or unreliable vehicles, needing medical care, trips to pharmacies for needed medications, to visit friends or families and other transportation needs.
“This program is about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Tom Jones, a program assistant at CARL. “Reliable transportation can mean the difference between making a medical appointment, putting food on the table or increasing socialization.”
Lack of reliable transportation, especially for older adults living alone, can often lead to isolation. Periods of prolonged isolation can lead to depression and other health issues.
“Our volunteer drivers often develop friendships with their riders,” Berz said. “They may go out for coffee or lunch and develop lasting relationships.”
CARL is constantly seeking volunteer drivers from throughout the central Aroostook area. To learn more about becoming a volunteer driver contact Berz at 207-551-5672 or berzsharon@gmail.com. Individuals needing rides may also reach out to Berz. Rides provided are free, but donations are encouraged.
The Center for the Advancement of Rural Living is a Caribou-based nonprofit organization focused on strengthening rural community life through practical, neighbor-centered solutions.
