Thomas Metcalf, John Davis and Steve and Bonnie Yost, volunteers for the ZOOM program and Chester County residents.
WEST CHESTER — Family Service of Chester County announced this week that its new program – ZOOM – will launch on April 19th and begin connecting area nonprofit clients with free transportation to and from medical appointments.
ZOOM is the first program of its kind in Chester County, tackling the ongoing issue of low-income and vulnerable clients missing important medical appointments because they lack safe and reliable transportation. As a result, many clients fail to get the care they need, simply because they could not coordinate a ride.
“Chester County nonprofits provide a host of important support services for the most vulnerable residents. Until ZOOM was established, there were few options for those who could not afford a car or similar transportation. ZOOM tackles the issue head on by connecting neighbors who care with neighbors in need,” said Burroughs P. Mack, MSS, Executive Director
ZOOM is a volunteer driver program that makes this connection happen in real time. ZOOM volunteers are coordinated by the Volunteer Chester County program of Family Service of Chester County at their main office in West Chester. Volunteers are provided comprehensive information on the program, the clients they could be driving, supplementary insurance coverage provided by ZOOM, and how to access an easy online ride signup system.
Clients receiving rides will be accessing a broad range of services, including prenatal testing, diabetes and hypertension management, mammograms and cancer screening, dental extractions and smoking cessation counseling.
ZOOM is in immediate need for additional volunteers to participate in this personal and flexible volunteer experience. Those interested who can offer at least one ride per month are encouraged to contact Linda Conzentino, Program Director, at lconzentino@familyservice.us or (610) 696-4900.
“Too many of those already struggling to access health care feel invisible – left out of excellent programs simply because they cannot afford transportation. ZOOM drivers remind clients with each trip that their wellbeing is important, too,” said Conzentino.
