Gwinnett gets grant to extend Get in Gear transportation program

Grant will help Gwinnett’s ‘Get in Gear’ transportation program continue into the new year. Courtesy Gwinnett Health and Human Services

Grant will help Gwinnett’s ‘Get in Gear’ transportation program continue into the new year. Courtesy Gwinnett Health and Human Services

Gwinnett’s Health and Human Services Division’s ‘Get in Gear’ transportation program will continue after county commissioners recently accepted a $165,977 grant from the Atlanta Regional Commission.

The grant covers Nov. 1 through June 30. A required $142,901 local match will be funded by a donation of $35,297 from Friends of Gwinnett Seniors, income from ‘Get in Gear’ fees and the County’s Health and Human Services general fund.

Since 2010, ‘Get in Gear’ has provided door-through-door transportation inside and outside the county for disabled adults ages 18 and older and seniors who need assistance. Scheduled trips may include medical appointments, employment, shopping, bill paying, community events/activities and more. Passengers have a choice of contracted providers and pay an income-based fee. Get in Gear served approximately 700 clients in 2017 and expects an increase of at least 15 percent in 2018.

“I’m grateful to secure these funds, and look forward to serving additional disabled adults and seniors in 2018,” said Deputy Department Director Blake Hawkins.

Information: www.gwinnetthumanservices.com.