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Providing seniors with door-to-door transportation to medical appointments, social engagements, shopping, etc. The Senior Rides Program, a program within the Department of Aging, is funded through a grant from the Maryland Transit Administration and the Board of Commissioners for St. Mary’s County.  This service is available to seniors who are unable to utilize other public transportation options and lack reliable sources of transportation. Click here to view the program brochure. Through the use of volunteer drivers, seniors are provided with door to door transportation to medical appointments, social engagements, shopping, etc. All trips are provided using the volunteer’s personal vehicle. When possible, the Department will attempt to coordinate transportation requests with other public transportation resources. An application is required for all seniors interested in participating in the program. The Rider Application can be completed by phone, in-person, or mail. Once accepted into the program, riders are instructed to make their requests for transportation at least 3 days in advance for locations within the county and 5 days for out of county destinations. Due to the limitations of this program, transportation requests are limited to 4 per month per rider. Transportation requests are not a guarantee of service and can only be accommodated if a driver is available.   Rider Qualifications Be 60 years of age or older, and a St. Mary’s County resident. Have a low to moderate income not to exceed $3,724 per mo. for an individual or $5,044 for a couple. Be able to walk using a cane or walker (wheelchairs cannot be accommodated). Lack access to reasonable, affordable transportation options. Rider Requirements Riders must use other forms of public transportation when available and when appropriate. Fees are charged using a radius method based from the rider’s pick up address. Fees are as follows: $ 6.00 within 15 mile radius $10.00 outside 15 mile radius $15.00 outside 30 mile radius $30.00 to Annapolis/Baltimore/Washington areas (Long distance trips are for medical only) Sign release/waiver form Be ready at time of pick up Be prepared to pay all tolls, parking, or other fees incurred on the trip Submit payment in a timely fashion Volunteer Driver Recruitment/Benefits In order to sustain the Senior Rides program there is an ongoing effort to recruit volunteer drivers. Drivers are not required to volunteer a minimum number of hours per month and are offered the following benefits: Mileage reimbursement Supplemental accident insurance CPR/First Aid Certification Volunteer Recognition Driver Safety Training A great sense of pride in their community Drivers are provided with all pertinent information such as driving directions and contact information prior to the trip. Driver Qualifications Patience and a genuine love of helping others Be 21 years of age or older Own a personal vehicle Have an automobile insurance policy with a minimum personal liability limit of $100,000 Driver Requirements Complete Application Participate in informal interview Pass Criminal Background Check Pass MVA Driving Record check annually Attend driver safety course Attend driver orientation class Sign a volunteer driver waiver release