HIRTA awarded grant to address inequities

The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) announced HIRTA has been awarded a new round of funding to support the development of a new equitable program to meet the needs of underserved populations.

HIRTA was one of nine grantees to receive the funding. Their goal is to make sure all underrepresented populations be more fully engaged and has a seat at the table to build on current planning efforts. A committee called IDEAS (Inclusion Diversity Equity Assessment and Solutions) will be created to expand HIRTA’s ongoing unmet needs assessment specifically focused on improving transportation for people with disabilities, older adults, and marginalized populations.

Kendra Davenport, president and CEO of Easterseals, Inc. said, “The freedom and mobility public transit provides helps people with disabilities, older adults, and caregivers remain involved in and connected to their communities. These grants will ensure their voices are heard in the planning process and help communities establish new, viable solutions to address the inequity and social isolation that a lack access to transportation can create.”

Julia Castillo, HIRTA’s Executive Director, said, “HIRTA is committed to creating a safe and inclusive experience for all passengers. In addition to our current projects, one thing we strive to do is search for additional funding so we have the opportunity to do even more in our communities. If even one person doesn’t feel safe and welcome on public transportation, our job is not finished and we will continue to fight to break down these barriers.”