Compeer Rochester is celebrating the expansion of its Vets Driving Vets initiative, which provides transportation services for veterans in Monroe County. Through new dedicated funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) announced last week, the program is now able to further support the veteran community by expanding the number of available rides, hiring veteran drivers and purchasing two new vehicles.
Without a reliable form of transportation, many veterans in the Rochester community struggle to access medical and mental health care, as well as activities that are available to help them reintegrate into civilian life following military service.
The presence of a peer driver, specifically a fellow veteran, is what distinguished this service from traditional medical and non-medical transportation services, providing a layer of comfort that is imperative in some riding situations.
“Seeing the growth of veterans programming through CompeerCORPS, especially Vets Driving Vets, has been truly inspiring,” stated Sara Passamonte, President and CEO of Compeer Rochester. “Since receiving ARPA funding earlier this year, we’ve been able to increase the number of rides, improve service quality, and support our veteran community with hired drivers and two new vehicles, including a wheelchair-accessible van.”
The ARPA funds have enabled Compeer Rochester to transition from volunteer-only drivers to hired veteran drivers, providing consistent and reliable transportation for those who have served our country. This shift is crucial as volunteer numbers decreased after the pandemic, affecting the ability to accommodate the high volume of rides requested.
Compeer showcased one of its vehicles in the Monroe County Veterans Day parade. “We were honored to walk amongst so many accomplished veterans and fellow veteran serving organizations. It was a wonderful way to make sure this resource is known to all local veterans,” says Passamonte.
In a recent press conference to announce the funding, Passamonte extended her gratitude to Monroe County leaders, including County Executive Adam Bello, Congressman Joe Morelle, and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, who helped secure funding for the program. She also recognized the ongoing support of Monroe County Veterans Services and the Office of the Aging for their financial contributions. Additionally, the Department of New York Disabled American Veterans and the Marine Corps Coordinating Council were instrumental through monetary support, making it possible for Vets Driving Vets to purchase the new vehicles and continue providing essential services.
For more information about Compeer CORPS and the Vets Driving Vets program, visit https://www.
compeerrochester.org.
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