Manatee Moves Veterans Program Surpasses 1,100 Free Rides
Manatee County’s Manatee Moves Veterans program has reached a significant milestone, providing more than 1,119 free rides to local veterans since its launch earlier this year.
Introduced in January by the county’s Veterans Services and Transportation divisions, the service offers free door-to-door transportation for verified veterans. Eligible trips include medical and dental appointments as well as visits to the Manatee County Veterans Services office. Veterans may schedule up to two one-way trips per day within county limits.
“Exceeding 1,000 rides so quickly shows the strong demand and vital importance of this program,” said Sarah Brown, director of Community and Veterans Services for Manatee County. “We want every veteran in Manatee County to know this service is available, reliable, and designed specifically with them in mind.”
District 4 Commissioner Mike Rahn, a Marine Corps veteran, noted the broader impact. “By removing transportation barriers, we are honoring the service of our veterans and ensuring they have access to the health care and resources they need.”
To register, veterans must complete a brief intake process with Manatee County Veterans Services by calling 941-745-3795. A DD-214 or discharge papers are required for eligibility, though staff can assist with document requests if necessary.
Once approved, veterans can book rides through the Manatee Moves app, available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, or by calling 941-747-1739 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Service operates Monday through Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., with trips bookable up to three days in advance.
For more details, veterans and family members may visit mymanatee.org/ManateeMoves.