Will Help Residents Connect with Needed Rides Throughout 4-County Area
The Mid-Minnesota Development Commission (MMDC) has leveraged $19,500 in local levy dollars, to gain state and federal Rural Transportation Coordination Council (RTCC) funds totaling $175,500. These funds will be used to help our region’s residents find and access transportation services so they can fully-participate in community life.
To date, RTCC work has included provider coordination and consensus-building, transportation gaps identification and analysis, and the development of a Transportation Resource Guide for Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, and Renville Counties. More recently, the MMDC’s Transportation Resource Coordinator, Heather King, has provided transportation providers with COVID-19-related technical assistance, including helping some procure personal protective equipment.
Phase 3 work will focus largely on public education. King will meet with individuals and groups to inform them of their transportation options and provide tips for ride success. She’ll also work to recruit volunteer drivers, who are in short supply throughout the region. “Without these drivers, it is difficult for many with transportation barriers, including many of our area’s older residents, to get to medical appointments and access other important services.” While King will conduct meetings in person when health and safety can be accommodated, phone and virtual consultations will also be offered.
A printable English version of the Transportation Resource Guide can be found on the MMDC’s website: www.mmrdc.org. Somali and Spanish versions will also soon be available. Individuals interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer driver may reach out to Heather King at (320) 235-8504, ext. 232 or via email at [email protected].