Henry County Rides
Free Transportation Through New Growth Transit Supported in Henry County by ToRCH Funding
In a time of tight transportation funding and growing need, New Growth Transit is pleased to announce a $67,090 contribution from Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare, made possible through the Transformation of Rural Community Health (ToRCH) project. These funds will support free rides to medical appointments for Henry County residents through June 2025.
“This funding couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Kelly Ast, Chief Mobility Officer at New Growth Transit. “With current budget constraints limiting the number of rides we can provide, this support from Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare ensures that Henry County residents can still get to the medical care they need.”
Transportation for Medical Appointments
Funding through this ToRCH grant will provide free rides exclusively for Henry County residents to access essential needs within Henry County. This includes medical appointments such as doctor visits,therapy, hospital procedures, and other activities that support health and well-being, such as trips to the pharmacy or grocery store. To schedule a ride, residents must call New Growth Transit at 417-283-7991 at least 48 hours in advance.
More Volunteer Drivers Needed in Henry County
To keep up with ride requests, especially while this funding is available, New Growth needs additional volunteer drivers in Henry County. Volunteer drivers:
- Set their own schedules;
- Are reimbursed for mileage by direct deposit twice a month;
- Are covered by volunteer driver insurance while driving as a volunteer;
- Receive training and a tablet to manage routes and mileage.
Drivers must have a valid license, good driving record, and minimum state-required car insurance.All volunteers meet with the New Growth Transit’s driver coordinator before taking their first trip.
While mileage reimbursements aren’t considered income, many volunteers appreciate the boost it can provide to their monthly budget. But more than the reimbursement, it’s the fulfillment of helping neighbors in need that drivers value most. Volunteers often share how much they enjoy making a difference in people’s lives, all while having the full support and guidance of the New Growth Transit team.
Helping Neighbors Get to Care
Many rural Missourians—including seniors who’ve stopped driving, individuals recovering from surgery, or people with disabilities like low vision or autism—simply can’t drive. Without help, they often miss appointments or go without access to the care they need. That’s why New Growth Transit provides free, volunteer-driven transportation, currently serving 11 rural counties in west central Missouri.
About New Growth Transit
New Growth Transit is a program of New Growth, a regional community development corporation affiliated with West Central Missouri Community Action Agency. And,we’ve proven a volunteer driver network can successfully address transportation needs in rural areas. In 2024, New Growth Transit volunteer drivers provided over one million miles in free rides for employment, healthcare, and essential errands.
To volunteer, donate, or request a medical ride in Henry County, contact:
417-283-7991; transportation@wcmcaa.org; www.newgrowthmo.org/transit
Together, we’re helping neighbors in need—one mile at a time.