The Norfolk County Senior Volunteer Program has received a $10,000 Massachusetts Department of Transportation Community Transit Grant to expand its Rides for Vets service to include wheelchair-accessible transportation for veterans traveling to and from medical appointments.

The grant will fund wheelchair-accessible vehicle rides throughout Norfolk County's 28-town service area through Dec. 31, 2027. The program will contract with Blooming Rides of Bellingham to provide the rides and will refer veterans to GATRA GO and GATRA Miles for Health when appropriate.

"Our veterans earned the highest standard of care, and this grant ensures we leave no one behind," Norfolk County Commissioner Joseph P. Shea, chair, said. "While our volunteer drivers do incredible work, they simply couldn't transport veterans needing specialized vehicles. This funding directly bridges that gap."

Rides for Vets currently provides nearly 1,000 rides annually to veterans throughout Norfolk County, with close to 50 volunteer drivers using their personal vehicles. Because those vehicles are not equipped to accommodate wheelchairs, the program previously could not serve veterans who use wheelchairs.

"Expanding 'Rides for Vets' requires a strong, collaborative network," Norfolk County Commissioner Peter Collins said. "By combining state funding with local partners like Blooming Rides and GATRA, we are building a smarter transit web."

Veterans or their representatives can request a wheelchair-accessible ride for medical appointments by calling 781-329-5728. Requests require five to seven business days' notice. Rides are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; weekend rides are subject to availability.

The Norfolk County Senior Volunteer Program connects adults 55 and older with volunteer opportunities across 28 communities in Norfolk County. In 2025, approximately 180 volunteers contributed more than 16,000 hours of service.

For questions about Rides for Vets, contact program Director Lucille Cassis at 781-234-3445 or [email protected].