CARIBOU, Maine — The Caribou Area Ride Service recently received a donation from the S.W. Collins Company in Caribou. The donation of $340 comes from the Community Grant Fund which seeks input from the store’s customers and then proportions donations to local nonprofit organizations.
CARS will use the donation to provide financial assistance to individuals 65 and older who utilize the ride service for local transportation. The ride service provides transportation within the 04736 service area at a cost of $4. Individuals wishing to utilize the service become members of the program by completing a form available at the Caribou City Office. Rides can be used for medical appointments, shopping, or other social activity. Volunteer drivers go through a program orientation, must have a clean driving record and a reliable vehicle. Drivers must also submit to a background check and provide proof of insurance, vehicle inspection, and registration. Drivers are reimbursed mileage for the transportation they provide.
CARS is a program of the Center for the Advancement of Rural Living whose mission is to fill in gaps in programs and services that enhance the quality of life in rural northern Maine. CARL is managed by a voluntary board of directors and was founded in 2011. For more information on the Caribou Area Ride Service call program coordinator Sharon Berz at 207-551-5672.
