Herkimer HealthNet Executive Director Elyse Enea presented a $3,700 check to the RIDE Program of Herkimer County Catholic Charities in support of health care transportation in rural communities.
“Herkimer HealthNet is pleased to donate $3,700.00 to the Catholic Charities RIDE Program,” Enea said. “One of the primary barriers in access to health care in rural communities is transportation. The RIDE program is a critical service for older individuals who may not have other alternatives for transportation.
“RIDE supports transportation for seniors to their medical appointments. The financial support provided by Herkimer County HealthNet will assist in maintaining this important service to the community.”
The RIDE program of Catholic Charities of Herkimer County provides medical transportation both in and out of the County to Herkimer County residents 55 and older.
“The program is essential in helping our seniors maintain and improve their overall health,” Rae Raffle-Maxson said. “We are very grateful for the support from Herkimer HealthNet for our program.”
The RIDE program is operated by RSVP volunteers that serve as dispatchers and drivers. Last year, our volunteer drivers transported seniors more than 60,000 miles. The donation from Herkimer HeathNet will assist the RIDE Program in reimbursing volunteer drivers so that seniors can continue to age in place.
The RIDE program is in desperate need of volunteer drivers. If anyone is interested, contact Raffle-Maxson at Catholic Charities of Herkimer County at 315.894.9917.
The Mission of the Herkimer County HealthNet is to improve the health and well-being of individuals who live, work, play and learn in Herkimer County.