WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow today announced that the Flint Mass Transportation Authority will receive $310,040 to transport patients to non-emergency medical appointments as a part of Flint’s Ride to Wellness Initiative. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration.
"Access to quality health care is paramount for the families in Flint that are recovering from the devastating water crisis in their community," said Senator Peters. "I am pleased that these funds will aid critical transportation efforts that connect residents with timely medical care, improving health and wellness during this challenging time."
“Whether you are a patient in need of dialysis, primary care, or a wellness visit, this investment will help you get to and from the doctor’s office,” said Senator Stabenow. “As Flint continues to recover, this investment will help the city improve public transportation for the many families who depend on it each day.”
“Public transportation can play a significant role in meeting the urgent need for medical transportation services,” said Edgar H. Benning, General Manager of the Flint Mass Transportation Authority. “This grant will allow us to address this urgent and growing need including providing same day services.”
The Federal Transit Administration launched the Rides to Wellness Initiative recognizing the rise in health costs for low income populations and the lack of transportation for treatment and screening. This program hopes to improve partnerships between health and transportation providers to increase access to care and improve health outcomes. More information about the Rides to Wellness Initiative can be found at https://www.transit.dot.gov/ccam/about/initiatives.
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