PTP - The Peer Transportation Program

People who receive mental health services and live in Erie County may be eligible for van service and/or bus passes to get to and from work or work related activites such as job interviews, physicals, vocational programs, etc. at no cost.

FSS - Family Support Services

People with a developmental disability who live with a member of their own family in Erie or Niagara Counties may be eligible for rides at no cost.

The FSS program provides occasional van trips to consumers and their family members to go anywhere, including doctor's appointments, shopping, etc.

Eligible Participants can receive a bus pass. They must have either a half-fare card or a Medicare Card.

Getting There

Consumers with a developmental disability, who live independently in Erie County, may be eligible for occasional transportation services to social and recreational activities:

• Van service at no cost
• Free bus passes
• Money-back for bus fare and/or mileage

Fee-for-Service

For people who do not qualify for one of the above programs, transportation may be provided for a fee.

The fee is $12.00 each way plus 50 cents per mile from your pick-up to your destination.

Call 836-0822, ext. 150 at least a week in advance to schedule your ride.

Independence Express Guidelines & Policies

• All trips must be scheduled at least one week in advance. Work schedules and job interviews will be given special consideration.
• All van services are based on availability. Schedules are made on a first-come, first-served basis, in order of priority under each program.
• Confirm pick-up time by calling 836-0822, ext. 305 after 5PM the day before the trip.
• To cancel your ride, call 836-0822, ext. 304 ASAP.
• Anyone that cancels three (3) times without calling in advance will no longer receive transportation. A written notice will be sent to inform the consumer of the loss of transportation privileges.
• Van drivers are required to wait ten (10) minutes from the scheduled pickup time.
• Drivers may not help anyone up or down stairs. Please have an aide to help you if you need assistance.
• All children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult; children under 5 must be in a car seat.
• You may be asked to be flexible with pick-up and drop-off times, as the ILP Transportation Dept resources are limited. We will accommodate scheduling requests as availability permits.