Free transport to wellness checks for Allamakee County residents
Contact: Betty Steege, Foundation Coordinator
563.586.2046
Mental Health Today/Matt Howe Tribute Endowment (MHT), in partnership with the Alice Hermeier Foundation Endowment, has announced plans to use its 2020 endowment disbursement to provide transportation for Allamakee County residents of all ages to and from wellness checks, mental health checks and mental health therapy.
Both endowments are held by the Allamakee County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque. “The Allamakee County Community Foundation has made the brain health of our region a priority for our research and grantmaking. We are proud to support funds like MHT and the Alice Hermeier Foundation, which are making an impact for residents who need it most,” said Betty Steege, foundation coordinator.
Rides will be provided at no cost by Northeast Iowa Community Action EARL transit services. Appointments can be within Allamakee County or outside its borders. To schedule transport, call toll-free 866-382-4259. Transit offices are open 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays). To maximize service, 24 hours advance notice is requested, but same-day requests will be accepted dependent on driver and vehicle availability. Deaf or hard of hearing: Use Relay Iowa 711. To request Spanish Relay, dial 800-264-7190.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our daily lives in almost every way, putting a strain on the mental health of many people,” said Rachelle Howe, who founded MHT with her sister-in-law, Becky Decker. “Add reduced socialization and the financial strains of lost work, and people who really need to get to appointments may be unable to afford the trip or access their regular ride. The goal is to keep our neighbors healthy.”