Project Objective:

“To enhance mobility and access to essential services for vulnerable populations in Rhode Island by providing monthly RIPTA transportation cards, thereby promoting social inclusion, economic participation, and improved quality of life.”

• What is the social problem this project addresses?
This project addresses several critical social problems:

Social Problems Addressed:

• Lack of Mobility and Access: Many vulnerable populations, including refugees, immigrants, the undocumented, and economically disadvantaged individuals, often lack reliable transportation. This limits their access to essential services such as healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and social services.
• Social Exclusion: Without adequate transportation, these groups can become isolated and unable to participate fully in community life. This project aims to promote social inclusion by ensuring they can move freely and engage with their communities.
• Economic Barriers: Transportation costs can significantly burden low-income families and individuals. By providing RIPTA transportation cards, the project helps alleviate this financial strain, enabling beneficiaries to allocate their limited resources to other essential needs.
• Access to Opportunities: Reliable transportation is crucial for accessing job opportunities, educational institutions, and training programs. This project removes transportation barriers to support economic participation and personal development.
• Improved Quality of Life: Ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to transportation can lead to better health outcomes, increased independence, and overall improved quality of life.
  Addressing these social problems, the project aims to create a more equitable and inclusive society in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

• Who is your target customer, user, or beneficiary?
The target beneficiaries of the project are:

1. Refugees and Immigrants: Individuals who have recently arrived in Rhode Island and may lack the resources or knowledge to navigate the local transportation system.
2. Undocumented Individuals: People without legal documentation who often face significant barriers to accessing public services and employment opportunities.
3. Young People from Poor Families: Youths from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who require transportation to attend school, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs.
4. Disabled Individuals: People with disabilities who need accessible transportation options to maintain their independence and access essential services.
5. Elderly Individuals: Seniors who may have limited mobility and require transportation to access healthcare, social services, and community activities.

The project aims to support these vulnerable groups by providing RIPTA transportation cards. By enhancing their mobility and access to essential services, the project aims to improve their overall quality of life.

How we will run this project
Here’s a detailed plan for running the RIPTA Support Program:
Project Overview:
The Transportation Support Program aims to provide vulnerable populations with monthly Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) transportation cards, enhancing their mobility and access to essential services. Each beneficiary will receive one card for four months.

Distribution of Transportation Cards:

Card Distribution: Distribute the RIPTA transportation cards to approved beneficiaries.

This will be done in-person pick-up at our office located at 131 Clay Street, Central Falls, RI 02863.