Sunline launches medical transportation service for veterans

Veterans needing a lift to medical appointments are now in luck, thanks to a pilot transportation program that began today in Riverside County.

The program is a partnership between the county and SunLine Transit Agency, and runs through June 30, or until all funds are expended, according to the office of Supervisor V. Manuel Perez.

"Transportation is a real challenge for veterans without vehicles who are unable to afford travel costs or perhaps unable to drive themselves," Perez said in a statament."We know there is a great need for a resource like this that veterans can turn to. This pilot is not just about transportation, it is a holistic program that offers safety, security and dignity to our veterans, who have given so much.''

The program is open to any veteran who lives in Riverside County who doesn't have transportation.

Loma Linda VA Hospital, located about an hour's drive east, is among the stops included in the service.

All destinations must be medical-based, according to Perez's office, and all requests must be approved three days in advance.

To request a ride, veterans must call the Riverside County Office on Aging's HelpLink at 800-510-2020.