(MARINETTE, MICH.) - A new transportation option is available in Marinette, Wis., and Menominee, Mich., for seniors who need a ride to medical appointments.
- A new pilot program offers seniors rides to medical appointments within the city limits of Marinette and Menominee
- The suggested contribution for each round trip is $6.50
- "Sometimes seniors are choosing between ... getting that ride to their medical appointment and paying their electric bill or buying food."
Margaret Werch can normally drive herself.
But the Menominee, Mich., woman will soon need need some temporary help.
"I'm going to have to get a knee replacement in April," Werch, 74, said.
“I don’t know how long I’m not going to be able to drive.”
During her recovery, she sees herself using a new transportation service in the area.
Marinette County Elderly Services (MLDS) is operating a pilot program, within the city limits of Marinette and Menominee, to take people to medical appointments.
“It’s a door-to-door service," said Olivia Cherry, executive director of MLDS, a non-profit group.
The pilot program launched this month, and a bus will run Mondays and Fridays. The suggested round-trip contribution is $6.50
"Sometimes seniors are choosing between... getting that ride to their medical appointment and paying their electric bill or buying food," Cherry said.
The phone number to schedule a ride is (715) 854-7453. Riders are asked to call for a ride three business days in advance.
