SMART - Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transit

05/21/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 05/21/2024 21:55

This Ride’s On Us, Veterans Transportation Program

Free Paratransit and Connector Service Transportation for Veterans and Their Families

In partnership with SMART, Oakland County is proud to launch "This Rides On Us", a new initiative dedicated to providing free paratransit and connector service transportation for veterans, their dependents, and widowers throughout Oakland County. This program is designed to enhance mobility, foster community integration, and support the well-being of our heroes and their families.

Why This Program Matters:

Access to reliable transportation can often be a barrier to accessing essential services and participating fully in community life. "This Rides On Us" aims to remove this barrier by offering:

  • Free rides within Oakland County on our paratransit and connector services, helping veterans reach medical appointments, job interviews, educational classes, and community events.
  • An opportunity to enhance economic stability and reduce social isolation by facilitating easy access to local businesses and social gatherings.

Who is Eligible?

  • All veterans residing in Oakland County.
  • Dependents and widowers of veterans in Oakland County.

How to Register and Book a Ride:

  1. Contact Oakland County Veterans Services to Register:
    • To register for this program, please contact Oakland County Veterans Services directly. They will guide you through the registration process and help you schedule your first ride.
    • You can reach them by calling 248-419-7984.
  2. Call to Book Your Ride:
    • Once registered, call 866-962-5515 and press 1 to book your ride with our friendly SMART booking service.
  3. Provide Proof of Service:
    • When registering, veterans need to show either their DD214 (discharge papers), a Veterans ID from the Clerk's Office, or a veteran designation on their driver's license.

Cost: Absolutely free! This program is fully funded by SMART and Oakland County as a token of appreciation for the sacrifices made by our veterans and their families.

Important Information:

  • Service Types Included: This service is specifically for our paratransit and connector routes.
  • Schedule and Availability: Services are available during regular SMART operating hours. We recommend booking your ride in advance to ensure availability.
  • Customer Support: If you need assistance or have any questions, our dedicated support team is here to help. Contact us at 866-962-5515 or Oakland County Veterans Services at 248-419-7984.

Join Us in Moving Forward Together

We invite all eligible veterans and their families to take advantage of "This Rides On Us". Together, we can ensure that our veterans continue to have the freedom and ability to access what they need, when they need it. Let's ride together towards a more connected and supported future.