Imagine being stuck at home, unable to drive anywhere. There’s a local program helping to solve that problem.
Naperville seniors in need of dependable and affordable transportation to medical appointments can look no further than RAN, Ride Assist Naperville.
Seniors can schedule times they need a ride to get to the doctor or pharmacist, and a driver will pick them up, wait at the location, and drive them back home.
“When a senior can’t get out, they’re stuck in the house, they become depressed or withdrawn and they really withdraw from society and that’s not healthy for them, mentally or physically. So this gives them back a measure of independence, they can call, schedule their own appointments. It gives their family a comfort level,” said Executive Director of RAN, Karen Courney.
It’s just what 85 year-old Eudean Sovereign needed, so when she heard about RAN, she knew it was the right program for her.
“I stopped driving two years ago. So this to me, is marvelous because you can have somebody take you, wait, and take you home, pick up your prescriptions, and see to all your medical transportation, which is greatly needed as we’re increasing,” said Sovereign.
Ride Assist Naperville is a non-profit program created by the Naperville Senior Task Force. Currently with eight board members and 15 drivers, the program has 48 riders who rely on the free transportation.
If you’re interested in being a volunteer driver or a client for Ride Assist Naperville then check out their website.
Naperville News 17’s Christine Lena reports.
