Wednesday, December 7, 2022
PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Jorge O. Elorza, Providence City Council President John Igliozzi (Ward 7), Providence City Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan (Ward 5), Providence City Councilman Nicholas Narducci (Ward 4), RI State Representative Grace Diaz (District 11), City of Providence Director of Senior Services Sue Robbio, Executive Director of Capital City Community Center Susan Stevenson, Associate State Director, Community Outreach for AARP Rhode Island Darlene Reza Rossi and community members today unveiled two new ADA-compliant 16 passenger vehicles equipped with wheelchair accessible seats to better facilitate elderly resident programming and outings coordinated by the City’s Senior Services Department.
“Throughout the pandemic, our elderly residents experienced isolation and loneliness while programming and outings with neighbors were severely cut back,” said Mayor Jorge O. Elorza. “The purchase of these two new vehicles will allow our seniors to stay connected to our community through social outings and trips, as well as to be able to run errands like trips to the grocery store or the pharmacy. The City is excited to see this investment in action and watch our elderly residents lead a more independent and social life in our community.”
The new senior services buses can be reserved for use by Providence senior centers and senior living facilities, including high-rises and assisted living facilities, to run errands, participate in group social outings, or other approved activities. Groups can request use of the senior buses and the services of the Senior Services bus driver by contacting the Providence Senior Services Department at 3-1-1.
“Let’s face it, when we get older, getting around isn’t so easy. Having to rely on family and friends can be difficult,” said Councilwoman and Finance Chair Jo-Ann Ryan (Ward 5). “I am proud to support today’s announcement of expanding transportation options for our Providence seniors with the purchase of two service buses. I look forward to seeing the buses on the road, dropping off, and picking up at the Feinstein Senior Center and elsewhere across Providence. The City Council has been and will continue to be a partner for our senior citizens.”
Both buses were acquired from Carpenter Bus Sales through a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The buses were funded through Providence’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and through the City’s master lease.
“Our Senior Center is very pleased to have the City of Providence as our partner in supporting the wellness of our senior citizens,” said Susan Stevenson, Executive Director of Capital City Community Center. “Having access to the City’s vehicles allows them to participate in community activities that keep them connected and active, doing things that most of us take for granted, like shopping, going out with friends to eat, going to the park, and so much more.”
For more information about transportation options and other resources for seniors in Providence, please contact the Mayor’s Center for City Services (MCCS) by calling 401-421-2489 or dialing 3-1-1.
For all current ARPA programs and funding opportunities, visit www.pvdrescueplan.com/apply. Information on all ARPA programs and projects for the City of Providence can be found at www.pvdrescueplan.com.
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