While COVID stalled VET Tran in 2020, Safe America is now looking to re-boot the ‘Vet Tran’ transportation program this summer. At the same time, Safe America will assess how Checker Cab can invite cab riders to ‘round up’ their fares to provide funds to subsidize veteran transportation.
Safe America has also begun to re-launch its ‘Welcome Home, Heroes’ support program in our new suite on the 4th floor of 315 Boulevard. Working with volunteers from WellStar, Safe America plans to offer medical care for PTSD and other mental crises that lead to depression. Safe America CEO Len Pagano noted that thanks to the vaccines for COVID-19, more work is being planned along with initial partners like Checker Cab’s President Rick Hewatt (seen on the right below). Pagano noted that COVID had ‘stalled’ service to avoid staff and volunteers to gain the influenza. With vaccines now available, Safe America is assessing how to ‘re-launch’ service – with volunteers from Atlanta, Jonesboro, Brookhaven, College Park plus Clayton, Fulton, Cobb, DeKalb and Gwinnett Counties.
“Two years ago, we had great support from MillerCoors, AMR, Jim Ellis Auto Group, Lockheed Martin and Primerica,” Pagano noted. “Now we’re hearing more interest – from PNC Bank, Kaiser Permanente and other national firms like Maximus. Ultimately, we’ll work to offer more transportation and get veterans to medical care clinics – not just the VA but local hospitals like Atlanta Medical Center, Grady Hospital and Kennestone.”
Pagano encouraged local residents to consider a donation this spring or summer to help ‘serve our vets.” To donate, go online at VETV.US or call Safe America at (770)-973-SAFE.