Door to Door Transit Service – Disability eligibility

As my son gets ready to transition out of the post- high school transition program, I’m learning about the disability services available once he turns 22. One service I find very accommodating is the Door to Door transit service available to those who qualify due to a disability. I’m in the beginning stages of learning about the program and need to call and request an application to start the process. Once the application is completed they ask that you submit supporting documents to verify disability status and then there is also an in person interview and physical ability assessment.

I’m a little worried about my son qualifying for the program even though he is on the autism spectrum and would do best with a door to door transit system. I’m planning on gathering medical records to support his diagnosis and even medical records from his neurologist since he suddenly developed seizures this year. I will have psychiatric records showing that he is prone to anxiety/ meltdowns if the bus is running late. This is one of his biggest triggers for a meltdown right now – when the school bus is running late.

I’m hoping to get the service approved before next summer as I’m also looking into getting him a part time job with limited hours thru the assistance of DRS – Department of Rehabilitative Services. It would be great if he can receive the public transportation service to and from his job. Right now he is working at IKEA a limited hours thru the transition program. It would be nice if he can also get a summer job there.

The door to door service also allows for one companion rider at no additional cost or if needed a personal assistant to assist with boarding and un boarding. The cost is 3.25 each way and you would have a prepaid payment card to pay the fare.

Since I’m in the beginning process of getting ready to apply, I will provide an update to the application status once we receive a final answer. Wish us luck in getting approved. It would be such a helpful service for my son to have the freedom to travel safely.