Medical conditions requiring regular treatment are not taking time off during the pandemic; individuals with disabilities or circumstances that prevent them from driving still need to get to medical appointments, the pharmacy and to the grocery store. STEP Transportation is still operating to serve their customers with trips necessary to maintain not just good health, but people’s lives.
Dan Merk, Program Manager for STEP Transportation, said, “We are considered a life-sustaining service. As such, our drivers and office staff are demonstrating their dedication to our customers by transporting them to much needed services and being there to answer questions they may have.”
STEP Transportation is taking precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as eliminating non-essential trips, to minimize exposure for both their drivers and the customers who need their services. STEP Transportation has already performed 44,884 medical and 749 grocery trips in Lycoming and Clinton counties this fiscal year – from July 1, 2019-February 29, 2020.
“While many of our programs and staff continue to serve our customers, our drivers remain a vital link in getting hundreds of individuals to and from life-sustaining medical appointments each day. Drivers provide safe travel and help passengers to and from their home and appointment facility. Transportation drivers are extremely dedicated and important to fulfilling our mission,” said STEP’s President & CEO, Jim Plankenhorn.
Many STEP programs and services are still operating, with reduced in-person contact wherever possible. For up-to-date service information, visit www.stepcorp.org or contact STEP at 570.326.0587.
