Our Mission
Founded in 1989, Wheels Harbison Area Transit was formed to serve HUD housing residents by providing free transportation to Elderly and Disabled residents in the Greater Harbison Area. This transportation includes getting elderly and disabled residents to and from medical appointments, dental appointments, pharmacies, grocery stores, discount stores, and many other types of businesses.
Our Impact
Over the past several decades, Wheels Harbison Area Transit has become a lifeline for the residents of Woods Edge, Lakeside, and AHEPA apartments, helping elderly and disabled individuals maintain their independence. In 2023 alone, our volunteer drivers transported 2,740 residents across 794 hours of service, completing hundreds of essential trips to grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices, and community centers. Beyond meeting transportation needs, our service fosters connection and companionship among riders and volunteers, creating a sense of community that extends well beyond each ride. This consistent support ensures that residents can access vital resources and remain active members of the Greater Harbison Area.
Challenges
While our mission continues to thrive, sustaining our operations has become increasingly difficult. Insurance costs have tripled over the past year, placing a strain on our limited budget. Resident donations currently cover only a portion of our fuel expenses, and though we receive generous monthly support, the loss of major funding from the Harbison Foundation has deeply impacted our ability to maintain both of our buses. With rising expenses for taxes, maintenance, and fuel, Wheels faces the challenge of balancing essential community service with limited financial resources, making outside donations and partnerships more important than ever.
Why We Need Your Help
Your support directly keeps our wheels turning. Every contribution helps us pay for insurance, fuel, and maintenance so that our buses can continue transporting residents to medical appointments, grocery stores, and vital community services. A donation, rather big or small, would ensure our long-term sustainability and guarantee transportation for residents who have no other options. By donating, you’re not only funding a ride, you’re preserving independence, dignity, and human connection for our elderly and disabled neighbors in the Harbison community.