OCEAN COUNTY – The county’s public transportation system, Ocean Ride, will be providing free transportation to COVID-19 vaccination clinics for seniors age 60 and older as well as people with disabilities.
“Many of our seniors and individuals with disabilities are already familiar with Ocean Ride, using it to get to health care and other appointments,” said Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Gary Quinn, who serves as liaison to the transportation system. “We want to make getting a vaccine as convenient as possible and if a lack of transportation is what stands between our seniors and the disabled from getting that important shot, we want to remedy that.
“Once you have made an appointment to get your vaccine, contact Ocean Ride and we can set up the door-to-door transportation for you,” Quinn said. “Our drivers and the Ocean Ride staff are ready to help in this ongoing effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.”
Seniors over 60 and residents with disabilities can call 732-736-8989, Ext. 1 to reserve their ride between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.
With more national chain pharmacies, health care agencies and other organizations now providing the shot, vaccination clinics are expanding more and more throughout the county.
“The Ocean County Health Department is also operating vaccination clinics at RWJ Barnabas Health Care Arena at Toms River High School North, Southern Regional Middle School, Stafford Township and Manchester Township Elementary School by appointment only, for Ocean County residents,” Quinn said. “It doesn’t matter which organization you make the appointment with in Ocean County, we will get you there.”
Ocean Ride is following all Center for Disease Control guidelines in operating its buses and reserve-a-ride system. Face masks are required for all riders along with social distancing when applicable.
“Ocean Ride continues to help make a difference in the lives of our seniors and disabled residents by getting them to where they need to go,” Quinn said. “This is a large county – more than 600 square miles – with limited public transportation opportunities. Getting our residents vaccinated will help enhance their quality of life. It’s imperative they have the transportation to get there.”
Step One: Make a vaccination appointment with whatever source you can.
Step Two: Call 732-736-8989, Ext. 1 to schedule your transportation.
