St. Margaret Foundation funds free shuttle for senior citizens in Alle-Kiski Valley

Senior citizens from Tarentum to Etna can get free rides to medical appointments thanks to support from the St. Margaret Foundation.

The agency last week announced it again will fund an Alle-Kiski Valley shuttle with a $90,500 grant, as well as three other shuttles that transport people between grocery stores, doctor’s appointments and other places.

People 60 and older can access the Tarentum-Etna free rides from senior living facilities in communities along the Allegheny River.

Stops include Amber Woods in Harmar, Springdale Manor, Rachel Carson Hall in Tarentum, Brackenridge Hall and the Harrison Hi-Rise, among others.

Transportation is provided to and from UPMC St. Margaret and affiliate offices such as the Harmar Outpatient Center and Renaissance Family Practice, along with other doctors’ offices along the route. The shuttle is run in conjunction with North Hills Community Outreach.

“It’s been a hard year for our community and our hospital staff,” said Mary Lee Gannon, foundation president.

“The reason we exist is because, when you’re sick, it’s difficult enough without having to worry if you have a ride to chemotherapy or treatment, or if you can pay for the expensive medicine, home oxygen, walkers, insulin and other items you need that aren’t covered by insurance.”

The grants were among more than $763,000 doled out by the foundation to improve patients’ access, education and experience.

Gannon said increased gas and food prices have meant people are leaning harder on the foundation’s shuttles and its food pantry.

“Our donors have answered the call of their neighbors in their hour of need,” Gannon said.

The foundation runs on the mission of “Filling in the Gaps with Hope, Healing and Independence.”

Other programs supported by next year’s grants include:

• $291,200 to the Rod Rutkowski Bed Fund, founded in 1929 to provide support for people who fall between the cracks of covered health care and social services.

• $109,090 for Free Rides for Seniors in Aspinwall, Blawnox and Sharpsburg.

• $45,000 for complimentary valet services for patients with disabilities.

• $7,643 for diversity, equity and inclusion in community CPR classes.

• $16,080 for a portable ultrasonometer for community health screenings.

• $15,000 for Kathleen’s Cupboard free food pantry.

• $12,412 for free flu shots for the underserved elderly.

• $8,500 for health fair screenings in needy communities.

• $3,000 for flower planting and beautification in courtyards and the rehabilitation patio.

Gannon said the foundation’s board of directors is dedicated to the organization’s motto and distributed money to categories in each of the three target areas.

“In a flash, your health can turn into the biggest challenge of your life,” she said. “The last thing we want is for you to forgo filling your prescription because you need to feed your family.”