Ride assist program offers lifeline to senior residents

COMMUNITY REPORT

Powhatan’s Ride Assist Services is a volunteer transportation program for individuals 60 and above in Powhatan County who are unable to drive. Requests for rides are coordinated through the program coordinator and vetted volunteer drivers fulfill those requests as their schedule allows. This program continues to increase in number of residents registering as riders and is in need of more volunteers.

The following was shared by Powhatan resident Dick Mensing, who is currently using the service:

“I have been home since Feb. 3, 2023 after being discharged from a major rehab facility. I was put on an in-home physical therapy program to help me get stronger, more balanced, etc. I am on a walker to help me function. At this time I cannot drive.

After my discharge there were and still are a number of doctor appointments tied in with the discharge. I also had other appointments previously scheduled.

I started out asking friends and neighbors to take me but that was not going to be a long term solution. Thank goodness for Ride Assist Services. The Powhatan Department of Social Services works in cooperation with volunteers to provide transportation needs for seniors who are unable to drive. To my knowledge this type of program is unique in our area.

After hearing about this service, I called Jayne Lloyd to find out more about Ride Assist Services. I can’t say enough about my first contact with Jayne. It was excellent; she made me feel wanted. She was very professional, knowl- edgeable, and there to help. Also we discussed the volunteer drivers who are making the commitment and sacrifice to make it all happen.

I have requested rides through Ride Assist Services for five doctor appointments and have encountered four different drivers.

I have three more doctor appointments coming up. Here are my comments about the drivers: They are more than drivers. They make a big sacrifice, are totally committed, very pleasant and friendly and want to help. My humble evaluation : I can’t do without this service. Ride Assist Services is five stars out of five. And to have someone like Jayne to coordinate everything is a real blessing; her leadership has made this service very successful.” submitted by Jayne Lloyd, program coordinator for Ride assist services

To register as an RAS rider or apply as a volunteer, call or email program coordinator Jayne Lloyd at (804) 698-0438 RAServices. PVA@gmail.com.