HANCOCK COUNTY — A newer, bigger vehicle is now available to military veterans in Hancock County who need rides to medical appointments.
Bob Workman, Hancock County veterans service officer, picked up the new Ford Flex earlier this week to replace the smaller SUV that’s been used over the past several years.
The Disabled American Veterans organization owns vehicles used for the initiative, and local coordinators have to raise half the funds, Workman said. When vehicles get close to 100,000 miles, they have to be turned in.
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More than $15,000 was raised over the past several months for the new vehicle, Workman said. It seats seven with a driver, as opposed to the former SUV, which seated three or four.
Workman said fundraising efforts went smoothly.
“People in this county are just something else,” he said. “When it comes to veterans, there’s just no problem.”
Workman added he’s very grateful for their contributions. Many veterans don’t have any other means for transportation to their medical appointments because they’re unable to drive and don’t have anyone to take them, he said.
“The veterans appreciate it,” Workman said. “It means a lot to those guys.”
The new vehicle has been decked out with the names and logos of major donors.
Workman said the vehicle will be used to continue to pick up veterans in Hancock County and sometimes in Shelby County for transportation to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers in the area. The nearest VA medical center is in Indianapolis. Veterans in need of a ride are encouraged to call coordinator Mike McCarley at 317-964-1522.
Workman estimated the local van transports more than 300 veterans a year.
“It’s a great program and certainly a needed program,” he said.
The program has been in place in Hancock County for about 14 years, Workman said, adding the new vehicle is the third vehicle in its history.
The initiative currently has enough drivers, Workman said, but is always looking for those willing to volunteer in case a driver leaves. Those who are interested are encouraged to contact McCarley.
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Veterans in need of a ride may contact coordinator Mike McCarley at 317-964-1522.
The initiative currently has enough drivers, but is always looking for those willing to volunteer in case a need arises. Those who are interested are encouraged to contact McCarley.
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