Press ReleasesSAN DIEGO (December 8, 2021) — Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) is offering free rides to local seniors who want to receive COVID-19 vaccine booster shots — or the original vaccine — as part of the agency’s continued efforts to provide meaningful services to help San Diegans through pandemic challenges.
Rides are provided through JFS’s On the Go, the largest senior transportation program in San Diego County, serving seniors of all faiths and backgrounds and helping them maintain their independence and mobility.
“Many of our local seniors are homebound and don’t have access to transportation,” said Michael Hopkins, CEO of JFS. “We can’t let this stand in the way for older adults who want to receive a vaccine or booster. We want people to know we’re here to help.”
On the Go is supported by a team of volunteers who take older adults to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store or on other errands. The program expanded its services earlier this year to offer rides for senior vaccination and has provided seniors more than 270 rides for COVID vaccines since January.
“With the CDC’s recent recommendation about booster shots for seniors, we want people to know that we stand at the ready to provide free rides for seniors who want a booster shot or still need the initial vaccine,” said Hopkins.
Seniors or their caregivers can call (858) 637-3210 to schedule a ride. For vaccine or booster appointments, On the Go shortened the mandatory 7-day advance notice to 2-days. For more information, visit jfssd.org/onthego.
The rides are available to seniors residing within 36 San Diego County zip codes served by the program:
- Eastern San Diego — 91941, 91942, 92103, 92104, 92105, 92108, 92111, 92115, 92116, 92117, 92119, 92120, 92123, 92124
- Northern San Diego — 92007, 92014, 92024, 92037, 92067, 92075, 92091, 92106, 92107, 92109, 92110, 92121, 92122, 92130
- North County Inland — 92029, 92064, 92126, 92127, 92128, 92129, 92131, 92025 (West of San Pasqual/Highland Valley Road)
Hopkins added that JFS is always looking for additional volunteer drivers to help older adults get to vital doctor’s appointments, run errands, visit with friends and more.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization,” he said. “We couldn’t provide the services that help so many in our community without our dedicated team of volunteers.”
Interested volunteers can visit jfssd.org/volunteer to learn more.
On the Go is a program of Charitable Adult Rides and Services (CARS) and is operated by Jewish Family Service of San Diego.
About Jewish Family Service of San Diego — Moving Forward Together
Founded in 1918, Jewish Family Service (JFS) is one of San Diego’s most impactful nonprofit agencies – providing resources and support to over 34,000 San Diegans this past year. Through integrated services, the organization empowers people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds to overcome challenges, set goals, and build more stable, secure, and connected lives. JFS is committed to helping individuals and families in crisis move forward, while developing innovative strategies to break cycles of poverty and strengthen our San Diego community.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency adapted, revised and expanded its services to focus on what was needed most, including critical food assistance through a no-touch drive-thru distribution, meal delivery and self-care support for seniors, safe spaces for people living out of their vehicles, and employment services and counseling. From response to recovery, JFS will be there for the community and offer much-needed relief and vital necessities. Together, we will make it through this.
To get help, volunteer or support JFS, visit www.jfssd.org or call (858) 637-3000.
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