Ocean Ride Providing Free Transportation To COVID-19 Vaccinations

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — Ocean County seniors and those with disabilities can get free rides to their COVID-19 vaccination appointments through Ocean Ride.

Ocean Ride is Ocean County's reserve-a-ride public transportation system.

"Many of our seniors and individuals with disabilities are already familiar with Ocean Ride, using it to get to health care and other appointments," said Gary Quinn, director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. "We want to make getting a vaccine as convenient as possible and if a lack of transportation is what stands between our seniors and the disabled from getting that important shot, we want to remedy that."

Seniors over 60 and residents with disabilities can call 732-736-8989, ext. 1 to reserve their ride between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Riders can reserve trips to any vaccine site in Ocean County, whether it's a pharmacy, a supermarket or the Ocean County Health Department's sites. The vaccination appointment rides are free.

"It doesn’t matter which organization you make the appointment with in Ocean County, we will get you there," Quinn said.

Ocean Ride follows all Center for Disease Control guidelines in operating its buses and reserve-a-ride system. All riders are required to wear face masks and social distance when applicable.

"This is a large county – more than 600 square miles - with limited public transportation opportunities," Quinn said. "Getting our residents vaccinated will help enhance their quality of life. It’s imperative they have the transportation to get there."

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