DAVIES PROJECT FOR MID-MICHIGAN CHILDREN

Volunteer drivers provide rides to medical appointments for children with a serious health condition, pregnant women, and for parents with a baby in the NICU if no car is available.

80% of pediatric care takes place in the outpatient setting. In Greater Lansing, 70% of the children who rely on the local subspecialty clinics for treatment of serious health illnesses clinics are on Medicaid. Poor transportation options contribute to their missing 60% of their medical appointments.

In addition to providing free rides to medical care, volunteer drivers are a connection for families who often feel highly stressed during a health crisis. Having a connection to the larger community helps families feel less isolated and a little more supported.

Dependable access to medical appointments helps doctors provide timely treatment, improves children’s health outcomes and fulfills a critical need in the community. Hundreds of children are healthier today because they did not miss crucial medical appointments due to transportation challenges.