Due to soaring demand, the Lapeer County Veterans Affairs Department has issued a plea for volunteer drivers to transport veterans to and from VA medical appointments. “We’ve had to turn away some veterans and we’re determined to not let that happen again” said Edward L. Ronders, LCVA director. Drivers typically transport veterans to VA facilities in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Saginaw, Yale and Flint and may volunteer for as many days as they want or be listed as standby. Volunteers must have a good driving record and a valid Michigan driver’s license.

A robust outreach effort to inform the county’s 6,729 veterans of benefits available to them is expected to increase demand for transportation services even more. “Given Lapeer County’s rural location and the distance to medical facilities, veterans face a transportation barrier” said Ronders. “We’ve been able to keep pace, for the most part. But we have no leeway. We need to fortify our ranks.” To obtain an application for the program, contact the Lapeer County Veterans Affairs office at 810-667-2056. “We’re determined to fulfill our mission of transporting all veterans needing a ride, but we need help to do it.”

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