FAQ/Testimonials
FAQ
What is SCM Elderbus?
Incorporated in 1974, SCM Elderbus is a private non-profit corporation that provides transportation services to senior and disabled residents within its service area. Under contract to the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA), Elderbus provides transportation services to twenty-two communities in central Massachusetts.
Which communities does Elderbus serve?
Elderbus provides transportation services to the towns of Barre, Brimfield, Brookfield, East Brookfield, North Brookfield, West Brookfield, Charlton, Douglas, Dudley, Holland, New Braintree, Oakham, Paxton, Princeton, Rutland , Southbridge, Spencer, Sturbridge, Sutton, Wales, Warren, and Webster.
Who can use the services offered by Elderbus?
Any resident of the communities serviced by Elderbus who is 60 years of age or older, or residents who are disabled, are eligible to use the service.
When does the service operate?
Elderbus operates Monday - Friday, from 8:30AM to 3:30PM (excluding holidays).
What if I use a wheelchair?
All vehicles operated by Elderbus are equipped with a lift to accommodate clients requiring the use of a wheelchair. The lift can also be used by others that require such assistance when boarding or exiting the vehicle.
Are there any restrictions on using the service?
There are no restrictions on the using the service for you transportation needs. Medical appointments, grocery shopping, rides to work, banking, hair dresser appointments, or simply a trip to the local coffee shop are just a few of the reasons people use Elderbus.
Is it expensive?
Elderbus is extremely affordable. A trip within your town is just $1.50. An out-of-town trip is $1.50, plus and additional $0.25 for each additional town. (A trip to the town next door is $1.75, two towns out the fare is $2.00 etc.)
Do your drivers receive any specialized training?
All Elderbus drivers undergo a thorough background check prior to employment. In addition to receiving extensive training on safely operating our vehicles, all employees also receive specialized training to meet the specific needs of our senior and disabled clients.
How do I reserve my ride?
The process is simple. Simply give us a call at 800-321-0243 and make your reservation. All we ask is that you call no later than noon (12:00pm) the day before your trip. For example, if you are planning on using our service on Friday, simply give us a call no later than noon (12:00pm) the Thursday before your trip. We will call you on the day before your scheduled trip to confirm the details. Trips can be scheduled days, weeks, and even months in advance.
Testimonials
We constantly encourage feedback from our clients regarding our services. It helps us to change and improve the service based on the needs of our customers. Our clients also tend to be our biggest fans. Here is a sampling of the feedback received from them.
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"The Elderbus service is a much-appreciated gift to those of us who no longer drive."
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"Thank goodness for Elderbus. I know it's there when I need it. Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
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"I appreciate having the bus to take me where I want to go."
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"Excellent organization with superb individuals throughout, from the main office to the drivers."
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"Without Elderbus, I would not be able to keep my medical appointments. Thank you!"
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"I love riding the Elderbus. The drivers are just wonderful. Very caring, very polite, and just a pleasure to be with."
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"The office staff is very nice and easy to talk to. It makes me feel good and at ease when I call for my transportation needs. Thank you so much!"
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"I am writing on behalf of my mother who utilizes your service. She speaks so highly of all the SCM Elderbus personnel. I would be totally lost without this remarkable service. It allows my mother independence and creates joy in her life. Thank you so very much."
Why Wait?
Using the service could not be easier. All residents age 60 and over, as well as the disabled, are eligible for the service. Simply give us a call to reserve your ride, and let us know where and what time you would like to be picked up (your home for example), and where you would like to be dropped off. Your return trip works the same way and is scheduled during your initial call to our office. Again, just let us know what time you would like to be picked up, and we will return you to your home destination. Our service is available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm for rides within your community.
Out-of-town medical transportation is provided for each of the twenty-two communities we serve three days per week (see Service Area for specific details by town). The cost of the service is extremely affordable. Each in-town trip is $1.50 (one way). Out-of-town trips cost an additional $0.25 for each town beyond the one you reside in. For example, a trip to the town next door would be $1.75, two towns over $2.00, etc.