Supported Transportation Program

Posted on: November 6, 2009 | sewardtrails | Comments Off | Print Article | Rate Post:

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We are at it again Seward! Your Independent Living Center (ILC) has successfully coordinated a supported transportation pilot program for our community. What does this mean to Seward? Qualifying individuals can stop by the ILC office, located at 201 3rd Ave in the Orca Building, and register to buy $5 taxi vouchers for $2.50 each. Then when they want to go somewhere in the community they simply call Phoenix Taxi for a ride. The driver will take the rider where they need to go and the rider will give the driver enough vouchers to cover the fare. Simply put the participant gets reduced fares and the driver gets paid full price through the ILC. Who could not use help in saving money? Well who qualifies you ask? Anyone 60 years of age or older who does not have alternative means of transportation or any individual who experiences a disability and has no alternative means of transportation. There is some flexibility so it is best to contact the helpful ladies at the ILC by calling 224-8711 to see if you qualify.
The funding for this program was generated from the Stimulus Act and it is due to run through June 2010 with its current setup. We will be seeking alternate funding sources should the program be well received by the community. We also welcome expanding it to other cab companies interested in working with us to promote the ILC’s mission.
The ILC has offices in Homer, Soldotna and here in Seward. ILC’s mission is to “Promote choice, independence and quality of life for persons living with disability.” Joyanna Geisler, the ILC’s Executive Director, has created similar programs for the other communities and has been trying to build one here in Seward for over 10 years. Joyanna stated “I would really like to thank Mad Jack, Owner of Phoenix Taxi, for helping to put this program on the road. The programs serving Homer and Soldotna assist over 300 individuals in gaining access to their respective communities.”
We all know of someone who could possibly utilize this program so pass the word along Seward!
Melissa Kompkoff
Independent Living Specialist

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