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FAQ

Answers to the questions we hear most from clients and volunteer drivers.

Client Questions

Who is eligible for transportation?

Please note that Volunteer Transportation Center does not discriminate. The eligibility of each client is based upon need.

The Senior Transportation Program is made possible by funding from the New York Office for the Aging, Title III of the Older Americans Act, and the Counties of Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence and the Madison County Office for the Aging. This program is for persons 60 years of age or older.

How do I become a client?
In order to provide transportation services, Volunteer Transportation Center must register participants before they can be transported. Complete an application online or call us at (315) 788-0422.
How do I request transportation?

Call the office in your county between 8am and 5pm, Monday through Friday.

Jefferson County (315) 788-0422
Lewis County (315) 376-3777
St. Lawrence County (315) 714-2034
Madison County (315) 628-8732

How soon should I call for my appointment?
You must allow the office at least two (2) business days prior to your appointment to locate a driver. Our drivers are booked well in advance, therefore we require as much advance notice as possible.
May I bring someone with me on my trip?
If you need to bring a companion, please let us know in advance, so the volunteer can make sure he or she has sufficient room in the vehicle.
Can I stop at another location on my trip?
No. Extra stops are not allowed because our volunteers are often scheduled for more than one drive per day, and any unplanned stops could put the volunteer behind schedule.
What if I have a smoke allergy?
All vehicles are non-smoking. Neither the volunteer nor the client are permitted to smoke per New York State Department of Health regulations.
What if I want to take the bus, but I am not close to a stop?

St. Lawrence County Public Transit and Volunteer Transportation Center are partnering for the First Mile Last Mile Program. Don’t let the program’s name fool you: this service picks you up at home and drops you off at the closest bus stop. You catch the bus to work, school, the grocery store, or wherever you need to go. When you are ready to come home, catch the bus back and a volunteer driver will pick you up at your original stop and take you home.

Learn more: First Mile Last Mile program or the rack card (PDF). In Jefferson County, check out JCPT Connect, Jefferson County Public Transit’s on-demand bus service.

Volunteer Driver Questions

Do volunteers who drive get paid?
Our volunteers get reimbursed up to the IRS rate for their mileage driven, and we pay for parking per our policy. Volunteers do not get an hourly rate or any other payment for services.
As a volunteer, do I get to make my own hours?
Yes. Just let us know what your availability is and we will schedule you to drive in that time frame as trips are available.
As a volunteer driver, what will I need to provide?

You will need the following:

  • Your own vehicle (clean and in good working condition), preferred to be 15 years old or newer
  • A copy of your driver’s license
  • Proof of insurance for your vehicle
  • Vehicle registration
  • A completed application and agreement to a thorough background check

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