The COA recognizes the lack of resources available to meet the needs of Marion's seniors who do not drive. There is no public transportation, which leaves many seniors vulnerable, trapped in their homes without the means to shop, visit the doctor or fill necessary prescriptions. The COA strives to provide essential transportation for those in our community who do not drive and who do not have family available to assist them.
The COA utilizes two major sources to provide transportation for seniors. The first source is FISH, a volunteer group organized and coordinated through the COA office. However, two part-time COA employees provide the bulk of transportation services. Both sources transport Marion seniors to related medical appointments in the surrounding communities. In order to provide this service in an orderly equitable manner, it is necessary to abide by the following:
1. Seniors must provide the COA office with all necessary information as soon as appointment is made. Information must include: date, time, and location of appointment.
2. The drivers, not the COA office, will contact the seniors to set a pick up time. The COA office will contact senior only when they are not able to arrange transportation.
3. Seniors must understand they may share the ride with others and may need to wait for others to finish their appointments.
4. All requests must be called into the COA office, not to the drivers.
5. Donations are accepted for all rides.
6. Transportation to Boston for medical appointments is possible. However, in addition to the donation, seniors will be asked to pay for all tolls and parking associated with the trip.
7. The COA will not always be able to fill requests for transportation. Schedule conflicts and duplicate requests may interfere with one another.
8. Seniors should talk with family and check other options before requesting transportation from the COA.
9. Seniors should notify COA office immediately to cancel transportation for any reason.
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