Good news! If you are 63 or over and can’t drive, or don’t have a car, you are likely eligible for a half-price taxi program. If you are disabled and can’t drive, you would also be eligible.

The Transportation Coupon Program is being widely used by seniors and people with disabilities in other parts of the Midcoast, but most people on the Boothbay peninsula aren’t aware of it.

To apply, you need to submit an application form. Once approved, coupon credits are purchased by mailing a check or money order, or you may prefer the convenience of using a credit or debit card over the phone.

Any money received will be matched and placed on an account for you to use with any participating provider. For example, if you place $5 on your account, you actually have $10 worth of coupon credits to use for your taxi ride. Current local participating taxi companies include: Bobo’s Coastal Cabs, Boothbay Taxi, Riverside Cab and Twin Village Taxi.

There are no limits on what you can use this service for, so those who use it can enjoy the freedom to run errands, go out with friends, get to movies and plays, or just enjoy life more fully, without relying on others.

The Wellness Foundation’s Elder Empowerment Committee and Michaela Stone, Boothbay Region Community Resources’ Community Navigator, are ready to help local seniors apply for this valuable program.

Wellness Foundation Elder Empowerment Committee members have the application forms and can help you fill them out, take your picture and send both off electronically.

Michaela Stone (207-350-6272) can give you the application and help you fill it in, and you’ll need to supply a picture (a current picture is required, see instructions on the application form for further details). To contact a member of the Elder Empowerment committee, call Patty Seybold, 207-633-4368.

The Transportation Coupon program was made possible by a federal grant and support from local businesses and nonprofits.

If you prefer to do this yourself, applications may be downloaded from www.mchinc.org/rides.html, or you can request an application to be mailed to you by contacting Michele Manley, the Mobility Manager for MCH, or Patty Seybold from the Wellness Foundation.

If you have questions about the program, you can reach Michele at 207-594-2742 or at mobilitymanagement@mchinc.org.