Volunteers provide 1M miles to connect rural Missourians with essential services

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - One million miles have been provided by volunteers of a new and booming organization to connect rural Missourians with essential services.

New Growth Transit, a rural transportation provider, has announced that in just 10 months, more than 1 million miles of free rides have been given to Missouri residents. The organization, which includes a network of about 70 drivers, shuttles residents to healthcare, employment or food services.

In 2023, organization officials said just over 350,000 miles had been provided. The rapid growth highlights their commitment to the expansion of essential services to those in remote locations.

“Reaching one million miles in less than 10 months was not expected or planned for at the beginning of this year, but it’s a testament to the great need and success of the program,” said Kelly Ast, Chief Mobility Officer at New Growth Transit. “We couldn’t have done it without the dedication of our drivers who volunteer their time, our coordination staff, and our local, regional, and state partners. When a person is not able to drive themselves, transportation is a lifeline, and we’re so proud to be able to coordinate this vital service.”

New Growth said its mission is to address transportation challenges faced by rural residents who are not able to drive themselves and often have to travel long distances for medical care, groceries, work and more with little to no public transit available. Each leg of a trip is about 48 miles.

However, organization leaders indicated that their mission goes beyond simply connecting rural residents to vital resources, they also provide enhanced social and community connections.

“I like to drive and I love having a purpose and reason to get out myself while meeting new people,” said volunteer driver LaDonna Moore who is a retired teacher. “So many people don’t have anyone and they not only need a ride to these places, but they also need someone to talk to. I’m so happy I can help, yet it’s also nice knowing my expenses are covered while I provide this service.”

New Growth said volunteer drivers are directly paid mileage reimbursements - not an income - at a rate of 67 cents per mile. They get to choose when, where and how often they drive with no special license needed - just their own car. Certified and trained drivers are also covered by volunteer insurance.

Currently, New Growith noted that it coordinates volunteers and riders in Bates, Benton, Camden, Cass, Cedar, Dallas, Henry, Hickory, Laclede, Morgan, Miller, Polk, St. Clair and Vernon counties. New drivers are always needed to keep up with the high level of demand.

In addition to volunteers, organization leaders indicated that donations have become vital to coverage of the costs to reimburse drivers and meet the unexpected serge in demand for riders. Local donations help ensure rural residents continue to have their essential needs met.

To volunteer as a driver or to donate, click HERE.