The drivers who provide services for HELP‘s transportation program have as many stories as they have relationships with their riders. One of the drivers smiles as he remembers 102 year old ―Mary, who was always delighted about the ride to her hair appointment. Even with her walker, double hearing aids and near blindness she rarely missed her chance to chat with the driver and other riders.

HELP‘s transportation makes it possible for seniors and the disabled to continue to do their errands and socialize. HELP‘s drivers say the primary reason they drive is the relationships they build with riders and the chance to do something meaningful. Many realize they are offering a service they may need as they get older.

In the summer when temperatures are peaking, drivers are recruited to help the homebound to the Little House cool-ing site (see HELP in the Heat pg.2). There is always a need for people willing and able to drive vans for the wheelchair bound. Training is provided and the emotional reward is priceless.

In 2006-07, HELP‘s Transportation Program drove 975 elderly or disabled Valley residents to 11,745 appointments. 25 volunteer drivers logged 4,515 hours on the road and drove 50,958 miles.

For more information or to sign up for ride, please contact Glenda King, Transportation Coordinator at          805-646-0144 or e-mail glendak@helpofojai.org