VanTran to Offer Transportation Alternative for Wheelchair-bound

May 31, 2005

VanTran, a member of the Wexner Heritage Village family of services that provides transportation for older adults on the east side of Columbus, recently added a new van with a handicapped-accessible lift. The addition was made possible through the receipt of a grant from Osteopathic Heritage Foundations and will allow for operations costs in addition to the new vehicle.

VanTran, operated by Wexner Heritage Village’s outreach program Heritage at Home, offers an affordable and reliable transportation alternative for older adults. The addition of a handicapped-accessible vehicle means that those using wheelchairs, walkers, or who just have trouble climbing stairs can now use the service to access healthcare and shopping.

Lisa Eible, director of Heritage at Home, stated, “One of the biggest obstacles to older adults’ ability to remain living independently in their homes is the ability to drive. Transportation to shopping and medical appointments is crucial.”

According to recent data, VanTran averages 459 rides each month and 68 percent of riders are over age 75. The target riders are older adults and the disabled. VanTran has scheduled destinations each day either to shopping areas or medical centers for appointments. Community members call to schedule a pick up on the days they wish to go out. No fare is charged, however, a small donation is requested.

The VanTran reservation line is 614-559-0330.

Wexner Heritage Village is a not-for-profit provider of health, housing, social and spiritual services in the central Ohio community, primarily serving older adults and persons with disabilities. Its mission, guided by Jewish values and traditions, is to assist those it serves in pursuing their fullest human potential. The campus serves the entire community and includes: Wexner Heritage House, a 200-bed nursing facility, Heritage Tower and Bexley Heritage Apartments, HUD-sponsored independent living, Creekside at the Village, premier independent apartments, Victor Weinstein Shalom House and Shalom House South, two MRDD group homes, Village Shalom Apartments, Heritage at Home and Jewish Community Hospice.