Ride hailing services from Uber, Lyft and others are now commonplace. While most of Fellowship Square residents have a car of their own and drive regularly, others do not have their own transportation and struggle to run errands or make it to their doctor’s office.
The National Council on Aging in partnership with Volkswagen Group of America conducted a survey earlier this year of ride-hailing services. Many older adults lose their ability to drive safely as they age – and transportation is such an important part of one’s independence.
Fellowship Square devotes resources to helping our residents overcome their transportation challenges. At each property, we have a 14-passenger bus that makes trips regularly to shopping centers, restaurants and field trips requested by residents (such as local farmer’s markets and museums). Additionally, through donations from people like you, we provide emergency funds to help residents with vehicle repairs to keep their cars running.
Having the ability to “get on the road” whether for necessity or just to get out of the house is vitally important to all of us. Besides the convenience of having transportation when they need it, getting seniors out and about, through a “car on demand” service or on the Fellowship House bus gives them a greater sense of self and their own empowerment. The freedom to “go” has a tremendous positive effect on their mental well-being.
I greatly appreciate all that you do for our organization. Your support – now and always – makes a lasting impact on those we serve. Happy holidays to you!
In gratitude,
