Media release from the City of Rome, GA:
Reliable transportation can open doors to employment, education, and greater independence. To help address transportation barriers for low-income residents, Ride Forward Rome (RFR) is a transportation assistance program designed to help eligible low-income residents overcome transportation barriers through subsidized bus passes and partnerships with community service organizations.
Launched with an initial $10,000 contribution from the City of Rome’s opioid settlement funds, Ride Forward Rome provides an opportunity for individuals, businesses, churches, civic groups, and other community partners to invest in expanding access to affordable transportation. The Community Foundation for Greater Rome serves as the program’s fiscal agent, making it possible for community members and organizations to contribute financial support toward its continued operation and growth.
“Transportation can be the difference between someone reaching a job, pursuing an education, or accessing essential services,” said Courtnay Griffin, Transit Director for the City of Rome. “Ride Forward Rome is a City of Rome initiative focused on helping residents overcome transportation barriers and move toward greater independence. We are grateful to the Community Foundation for Greater Rome for serving as our fiscal partner and providing a way for businesses and individuals to sustain this important program through donations.”
Partnering with Area Service Organizations
Qualified nonprofit organizations, workforce development programs, educational institutions, veterans’ services, housing providers, and other eligible agencies can apply to become Ride Forward Rome partners.
Approved partners can receive subsidized bus passes for eligible clients and a 50% discount on bus pass purchases. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through the program’s application process.
Service agencies interested in applying to be a partner in the program should contact Molly Majestic at 706-806-6704 or mmajestic@romega.us
Helping Residents Move Forward
Ride Forward Rome helps make public transportation more affordable for eligible residents who:
- Have a household income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- Live within Rome city limits.
- Lack access to affordable transportation.
The program supports individuals pursuing employment, job training, education, housing stability, and other essential goals. Qualified residents may only apply for free transportation from partner service organizations participating in the program.
Community Support is Essential to Sustaining the Program
Ongoing donations are essential to sustaining the program, expanding its reach, and helping more residents overcome transportation barriers. All contributions will support transportation assistance and help ensure Ride Forward Rome can continue to grow and serve the community.
Individuals, businesses, churches and civic organizations can contribute a tax-exempt donation through the Community Foundation for Greater Rome’s website by clicking on the donation page at www.cffgr.org.
Together, we can help more Rome residents overcome transportation barriers and access the opportunities they need to build a brighter future with greater independence and self-sufficiency.
About Ride Forward Rome
Ride Forward Rome (RFR) is an initiative managed by the City of Rome. The program expands transportation access for eligible low-income residents within Rome city limits through subsidized bus passes and partnerships with community organizations. Greater Rome Community Foundation serves as the fiscal agent for Ride Forward Rome. The program does not distribute RFR passes to individuals directly. Approved partners that successfully completed the application process are responsible for distributing passes to eligible clients for important non-recreational activities and according to program guidelines. Learn more about the program at https://romega.us/536/Ride-Forward-Rome
About the Community Foundation for Greater Rome
Founded in 2015, the Community Foundation for Greater Rome connects donors with meaningful causes and supports initiatives that improve quality of life in Rome and Floyd County. Through charitable funds, grants, and community partnerships, the Foundation helps turn generosity into lasting impact and builds a stronger community for generations to come. Learn more and donate now at www.cffgr.org.
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