Transdev has partnered with its client Texoma Area Paratransit System (TAPS) to deliver food to those in need across the six-county service area.
“As soon as we experienced a reduction in service based on decreasing demand from the coronavirus outbreak, my thoughts went straight to our regular customers, who are mostly seniors and part of our at-risk and disabled population,” said Josh Walker, Transdev general manager for TAPS. “Without transportation they would be alone, isolated and potentially without food. I immediately reached out to all the local food pantries in TAPS’ six county service area in north central Texas to see how we could help.”
Transdev/TAPS started working with Meals on Wheels, Greenhouse Pantry and the Feeding Fannin County coalition to pick up and deliver non-perishable meals to those in need in and around the community.
Transdev says the positive impact this service has had on the community to date can already be felt:
- Meals on Wheels of Texoma – 547 trips and approximately 3,000 shelf-stable meals (MOW’s ultimate goal is to deliver 12,000 meals)
- Green House Food Pantry – 57 trips and 174 boxes of shelf-stable meals
- Feeding Fannin County – 82 boxes of shelf-stable meals to area residents
“The additional assistance being provided by TAPS is a game changer for us, especially in this uncertain climate,” said Greg Pittman, executive director of Meals on Wheels.
County Judge Bill Magers, who serves as the vice-chairman for TAPS said, “We want our seniors to stay safe while following the recommendations of our national, state and local leaders without having to go hungry. These partnerships accomplish this objective.”
“We all provide critical services to the community and we share a common goal of helping those in need. It made sense for all of us to collaborate,” added Walker. “I am proud to be part of this effort.”
During this unprecedented time, Transdev says it remains aware of the need for life sustaining services beyond public transportation in the communities that it serves and continues to look for opportunities to provide assistance.
