Local disabled veterans are now eligible for free transportation from Lift Line, Rochester (N.Y.) Genesee Regional Transportation Authority’s (RGRTA) paratransit service.

The Lift Line Disabled Veterans Program is made possible by a $5,000 grant from FTA New Freedom Funds, matching funds of $2,500 from the Greater Rochester Community Transportation Foundation and $3,000 from The Pike Co., totaling $10,500. 

There are 42,000 military veterans in Monroe County.

“RGRTA established the Greater Rochester Community Transportation Foundation in 2001 to provide grants to groups or organizations that could not afford transportation for educational, cultural, or athletic activities,” said Bill Carpenter, CEO, RGRTA. “Thanks to the foundation and generous support from The Pike Company, we are now able to provide 5,000 vouchers for disabled veterans to use for any transportation need they choose — medical and social service appointments, or recreational and social activities.”   

The program will be administered by the Veterans Outreach Center Inc. (VOC).

“The availability of veteran services in the Rochester community is among the best in the nation — but without access, without reliable transportation, our veterans wouldn’t be able to benefit from them. There are many conditions, battle wounds both visible and invisible, that can present a challenge to these heroes in their ability to access public transit,” Colonel Gary Yaple, President/CEO, VOC, said. “The caring and personal service of Lift Line opens up a new world of possibility for these men and women, and we are beyond thankful to be able to connect veterans to this program. It will change lives.”

In 2013, Lift Line covered 1.6 million miles, providing more than 169,000 rides to customers who are mobility-impaired.