DALLAS (May 12, 2021) — AARP is teaming up with Toyota and local Dallas organizations in the fight against COVID-19 through a new transportation initiative. Utilizing the newly launched AARP Ride@50+℠ Program – a program where multiple modes of transit can be found, booked and paid for in one place – residents can now book essential rides, including transportation for COVID-19 vaccine appointments. For more information, please visit www.aarp.org/ridedallas or call 1-800-466-1461.

Currently, for select constituents booked through Parkland Hospital and Dallas County, free rides for COVID-19 vaccines appointments are available. The free rides were made possible through a grant from Toyota.

“Every day people miss crucial medical appointments because of a lack of access or awareness in using local transportation options,” said Kyle Rakow, vice president and national director of AARP Driver Safety. “By arming older adults with knowledge and an accessible platform, we hope to make it easier for those in Dallas to get around, especially if it helps them stay safe and healthy.”

The AARP Ride@50+ Program – built on the Mobility as a Service (MaaS) framework and powered by Feonix – Mobility Rising – provides a single point of access to review, compare, book and pay for local transportation alternatives through a mobile application, online booking platform, or by phone. Individuals can book essential trips, such as the grocery store, pharmacy, or other medical appointments. The cost of each ride depends on the length and transportation option chosen and is clearly stated at the time of booking before payment is made. Payment is made using any major credit card. Prior to booking a ride, passengers and transportation providers must agree to follow all applicable future and current COVID-19 safety recommendations, including CDC and state guidelines.

The program is open to people of all ages, but focuses on individuals 50 and older and other vulnerable individuals. AARP membership is not required. The program is currently serving residents in Richland and Lexington County, South Carolina; Dallas County, Texas; and Washtenaw County, Michigan.

Toyota, a long-time supporter of AARP Driver Safety, assisted with the new transportation program by sharing industry knowledge and providing funds to support the development of the AARP Ride@50+ Program.

“The AARP Ride@50+ Program offers a simple, affordable, and efficient solution to finding local transportation for people of all ages,” said Sean Suggs, group vice president, Toyota Social Innovation. “This program makes it easier to access critical services and help people get to where they want to go, and that is what mobility for all is about.”

For more information, please visit www.aarp.org/ridedallas or call 1-800-466-1461.

For Washtenaw County, Michigan Residents

Currently, free rides to and from COVID-19 vaccine appointments are available to Washtenaw County, Michigan residents who book through the AARP Ride@50+ Program call center – 1-800-466-1461 – and use the code “Vaccinate Washtenaw.” The number of free rides is limited, provided on a first come, first served basis, and rides must be booked for pick-up and drop-off within the Washtenaw County, Michigan limits. The free rides were made possible through a grant from the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation.

For more information, please visit www.aarp.org/ridewashtenaw or call 1-800-466-1461.