For many seniors, no longer being able to drive to the grocery store or medical appointments can feel like a devastating loss of independence. Fortunately, the American Red Cross can help – offering no-cost transportation for shopping, medical, nutritional and personal needs.
In late March, this critical Red Cross service will expand into Washington County, creating additional mobility options for older adults and people with disabilities. While transportation service has long been provided to the area, existing bases in Portland, Hillsboro and King City have limited early morning and late afternoon service for Beaverton clients. Funding from Ride Connection will now allow the Oregon Trail Chapter to open a Beaverton operations center, add two accessible vehicles to the existing fleet and create a volunteer coordinator position, making the ability to serve the needs of Beaverton residents easier than ever.
"The Red Cross is committed to saving lives, and being able to help Oregonians get to medical appointments and purchase food can truly be life-sustaining," said Debbie Waalkes, transportation manager for the Oregon Trail Chapter. "We know there's a growing demand for special needs transportation in Washington County and we're excited for this opportunity to provide additional assistance to area residents."
Red Cross transportation service is typically provided by a group of volunteer drivers who offer clients friendly conversation and a helping hand. With the new expansion, the Red Cross is currently seeking Beaverton-area volunteers. Those interested in driving are urged to call 503-528-5624.
"We're so pleased to be working with the Red Cross to expand our volunteer transportation program in Beaverton," said Elaine Wells, Ride Connection's executive director and a Beaverton resident. "The expansion will add significant coverage once the new volunteers are in place, and I'm confident Beaverton residents will answer the call."
For more information about the Beaverton expansion or to arrange a trip request, call the Ride Connection Service Center at 503-226-0700.
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Local Oregon Trail Chapter volunteers respond to residential fires and other disasters an average of every 40 hours. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from Oregonians. Financial gifts help provide shelter, food, clothing, counseling and other immediate assistance to those in need. Call (503) 284-1234 or visit www.redcross-pdx.org.
Ride Connection, a non-profit organization and the state's largest provider of special needs transportation, supports mobility programs and services in urban, rural and suburban areas. With a service area of 3,699 square miles and a budget of $6.5 million, Ride Connection works with its network of service providers to create mobility options throughout the region. The Ride Connection network has grown from providing just over 11,700 rides in its first year to providing over 358,000 rides in fiscal year 2006-07.
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