The
Agency for Community EmPOWERment (ACE), along with the
Scranton Area Community Foundation (SAF) are launching a new pilot program that removes the transportation barriers that significantly limit the quality of life for many individuals in Lackawanna County. The
Rise and Rise Program aims to help qualifying individuals and families in getting to and from medical or work-related appointments, helping to break the cycle of poverty.
Rise and Ride is supported by funding from Lockheed Martin, the Robert H. Spitz Foundation, and the Scranton Area Community Foundation. The various funding sources enable ACE to serve individuals and families in need, including a special focus on helping veterans.
Through the funding support, ACE has purchased a vehicle, along with several car seats, in order to assist those with young children.
Services can be provided for those needing transportation within a 30-mile radius, Monday through Friday from 8:00am-6:00pm. The program is also looking to purchase bus passes and gas cards to compensate those with appointments on weekends. Applicants must be residents of Lackawanna County and must meet specific requirements. The veteran’s facet of the program differs slightly in order to better address the specific needs.
More information regarding necessary qualifications and the
Rise and Ride application can be found at
acenepa.org/riseandride. Once an application is reviewed and accepted, clients can put in a request for a ride. It is asked at least 2-day notice is given prior to the requested date/time.