Free ride program for low-income seniors in Seminole and Orange counties keeps a waiting list as requests outpace money

A nonprofit program that drives low-income older adults and people with disabilities in Seminole and Orange counties to doctor visits, grocery stores and food pantries is trying to raise more money because it has more requests than it can pay for, Spectrum News 13 reported Wednesday.

The program, RIDE (Reliable Independent Drivers for the Elderly), is run by Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando. Heather Petrusky, the agency's assistant director, told Spectrum News 13 that RIDE provided 619 round trips to 56 people in 2025 and expects to give about the same number this year.

Each ride costs the organization roughly $115 on average, according to the report. Private foundations, government grants and individual donors cover the bill.

"We get a far higher number of requests for assistance than we're feasibly able to provide, which is why we have a wait list for the program," Petrusky told the station.

Who can use it

According to the report, eligible residents can get up to two free round trips a month to places within 10 miles of home, such as medical offices, grocery stores and food pantries. Riders do not need to be Jewish.

People apply by calling Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando or filling out an application, and a program coordinator checks eligibility. Those who qualify go on the waiting list and are called when an opening comes up.

Kimberly Carlson, a licensed clinical social worker, told Spectrum News 13 that one of her clients had a food pantry appointment but no way to get there. Carlson said the client now has regular rides for groceries and medical visits, which lets her plan her own meals.

Petrusky told the station that dependable transportation also helps riders stay involved in their communities and reach other services they rely on.

Sources

mynews13.com