WILS Awarded Henry County Senior Tax Board Grant to Expand Transportation Access for Residents Age 60 and Older

WILS Awarded Henry County Senior Tax Board Grant to Expand Transportation Access for Residents Age 60 and Older

Warrensburg, MO — West-Central Independent Living Solutions (WILS) is proud to announce it has been awarded funding from the Henry County Senior Tax Board to support and expand accessible transportation services for Henry County residents age 60 and older. The funding will help address a critical need in rural communities where transportation barriers often prevent older adults from accessing medical care, grocery stores, pharmacies, community activities, and other essential services. By helping residents reach these destinations safely and affordably, the grant will support independence, health, and quality of life for seniors throughout Henry County. “Reliable transportation is more than just a ride—it is a lifeline that helps people remain active, connected, and independent,” said Deb Hobson, Executive Director of WILS. “We are incredibly grateful to the Henry County Senior Tax Board for investing in transportation solutions that help older adults continue living independently in the communities they call home.” WILS currently provides accessible transportation services for eligible riders in Henry County, offering door-to-door and curb-to-curb transportation for medical appointments, pharmacy visits, grocery shopping, and other essential needs. The grant funding will help support transportation-related expenses including driver wages, fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, scheduling technology, and rider assistance for individuals with limited incomes. Transportation challenges remain one of the most significant barriers facing older adults in rural Missouri. Many residents live on fixed incomes, no longer drive, or have limited access to family members or public transportation options. These challenges can lead to missed medical appointments, increased isolation, and reduced access to vital services. Through ongoing community outreach and transportation planning efforts, WILS continues to evaluate local transportation needs and identify opportunities to improve access for Henry County residents. Current initiatives include increasing awareness of available transportation services, exploring volunteer driver opportunities, and assessing interest in additional transportation options that support community participation and access to essential resources. “We know that when transportation barriers are removed, people can more fully participate in their communities and maintain their independence,” said Hobson. “This funding will help us continue building transportation solutions that respond to the unique needs of Henry County residents.” WILS extends its sincere appreciation to the Henry County Senior Tax Board for its commitment to improving the lives of older adults and supporting programs that strengthen communities throughout Henry County. Individuals interested in learning more about WILS transportation services or volunteer opportunities can contact WILS at 855-945-7929. About WILS West-Central Independent Living Solutions (WILS) is a Center for Independent Living serving rural West-Central Missouri. WILS empowers people to live independently, stay connected, and thrive in the communities they call home through transportation, advocacy, independent living services, and community-based solutions that remove barriers and expand opportunity.