New Freedom Taxicab Services Program
The New Freedom Taxicab Services Program provides taxicab services to eligible clients. Clients will be able to reserve taxicab services with the assistance of a Mobility Manager. Those who meet the program eligibility criteria may use taxicab services for their transportation needs, such as medical appointments, grocery shopping, banking, or life enriching activities, within the specified monthly allowance. Clients can take a maximum of four, one-way trips totaling 40 miles each month at no cost to the participant. All rides must originate and end in Los Angeles County.
New Freedom Volunteer Driver Mileage Reimbursement Program
The New Freedom Volunteer Driver Mileage Reimbursement Program provides mileage reimbursements for volunteer drivers that eligible clients recruit for themselves. Volunteer drivers provide transportation to the eligible client when no other transportation services exist or when the individual is too frail, ill, or unable to use public transportation for other reasons.
How does it work?
Upon establishing that the client is eligible for services, the County Mobility Manager will set guidelines and mileage reimbursement limits for each trip approved for the client. Eligible clients are responsible for recruiting their personal volunteer to provide the approved transportation services. The volunteer driver will provide the transportation to client (using their own vehicle) with a flexible schedule that works for both driver and client. The client will receive mileage reimbursement for the approved trips on a monthly basis and is then responsible for reimbursing the volunteer driver for the trips provided.
Where can I go?
Eligible clients are able to get to life-sustaining and life-enriching destinations that will enhance their quality of life, maintain their independence, and improve their overall health and well-being. Monthly client mileage limits will be based upon the travel needs of the individual client and determined by the County Mobility Manager at the time that eligibility is established. All rides must originate and end in Los Angeles County.
Clients are able to go almost anywhere within our service area including:
- Medical, therapy and personal appointments
- Grocery stores and other shopping destinations
- Social and recreational events, worship services and other outings
- Senior centers, recreation centers and adult day programs
- Employment, education and volunteer sites
- Courthouse
Where can I find my volunteer driver?
Volunteer drivers could be a caregiver, neighbor, family member or friend. The client is encouraged to recruit a trusted person who possesses a valid driver’s license and insurance on their vehicle.
The programs are available to the general public; however, client eligibility and priorities of service have been implemented to ensure service is provided to those who are most in need.