Demand increases for Catholic Charities’ transportation services. How to get a cheap ride
Behind Trinity Metro, Catholic Charities Fort Worth is the second-largest provider of transportation services in Tarrant County, and demand for the charity’s programs are on the rise.
Catholic Charities’ transportation services primarily serve low-income residents, people with disabilities and people 65 and older. Thanks to rising fuel costs, the programs have increased in popularity.
In the spring of 2021, the program conducted about 3,800 rides. This spring, more than 5,000 trips were requested, an increase of more than 30%. Catholic Charities conducts about 235 trips a day and expects to complete 55,000 trips this year.
Clients can call the service 48 hours in advance to book their trips and ensure they qualify. The program also allows clients to book recurring trips “if they go regularly to dialysis or to work,” said Matt Jacobs, director of the transportation program.
The cost ranges from $2.50 to $3.25 per ride.
Of the total trips made, 44% are for medical care, 38% are for employment or school, and 18% are for recreation or social visits.
“It’s great for us to be able to provide this service to the residents of the county to ensure seniors maintain their independence,” said Jacobs.
He expects numbers to ramp up even more heading into the fall as students need rides to classes.
Catholic Charities’ transportation programming also helps low-income and transportation-disadvantaged people get to work or work-related activities throughout Hurst, Euless and Bedford.
“It’s a great opportunity to help people as they’re getting back on their feet or have a broken down car,” said Jacobs.
The charity’s transportation service is available on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Azle, Lake Worth, Saginaw, Benbrook, Sansom Park, Westworth Village, Crowley, Everman, Forest Hill, Grapevine, Haltom City, Keller, Bedford, North Richland Hills, Arlington, Mansfield, Kennedale, Hurst, Euless, Bedford and Alliance areas.
To help offset rising fuel costs, Catholic Charities launched a Fuel the Future campaign, which allows donors to help pay for essential trips the organization provides. To donate, text FUEL to 243725.
Tarrant County residents can request a ride by calling 817-336-8714 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays.
This story was originally published August 25, 2022 at 5:00 AM.
