SPOKANE, WA – From May 12 to June 12, people in the Spokane Transit (STA) service area can call (509) 328-1552 to schedule a free door-to-door ride to and from their COVID-19 vaccination appointments. The limited-time offer aims to encourage timely vaccinations for everyone, especially underserved populations facing transportation barriers. Customers who sign up for a free ride during the one-month program are eligible for a second free ride if a follow-up appointment is required for the second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.
The scheduled rides will be provided on STA Paratransit vans with up to three passengers sitting at least 6 feet apart. Per current federal regulations and with limited exceptions, everyone on public transportation vehicles must wear a mask. Van operators are equipped with Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and regularly disinfect customers’ seats between rides. If desired, customers headed to vaccination appointments may be accompanied by one companion.
STA is offering Free Rides to Vaccines in support of a recent request by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). Dan Laster, Director of the DOH COVID-19 Vaccine Action Command and Coordination System (VAACS) Center, reached out to STA CEO, E. Susan Meyer, after successfully establishing similar partnerships with public transit agencies in the Puget Sound.
“Advancing the COVID-19 vaccination rate is the top priority in Washington State,” said Laster. “I’m grateful and thrilled to add Spokane Transit to a growing list of public and private partners working to overcome barriers so more Washingtonians can be protected from the virus. Transportation is one of the more common challenges people face, so I believe STA’s efforts will truly help those in need.”
More details about the temporary Free Rides to Vaccines program is available at www.spokanetransit.com/vaccines.