Benefits · Transportation
How to apply for Pope County Senior Transportation (RIDES Mass Transit) + Benefit Access (Pope County)
RIDES Mass Transit District
Who it's for
Pope County public transportation is RIDES Mass Transit District, the rural transit provider for southeastern Illinois (RIDES is headquartered in Rosiclare, in Hardin County). RIDES offers curb-to-curb demand-response rides and intercity service for medical appointments, senior centers, and essential errands across Pope County (Golconda, Eddyville) and to regional hospitals (SIH Harrisburg Medical Center and beyond). Seniors and people with disabilities ride at reduced fares; the Illinois Benefit Access Program (Illinois Department on Aging) provides additional free/reduced fares for income-eligible riders 65+. Schedule rides in advance.
Pope: RIDES Mass Transit District (HQ Rosiclare/Hardin; the SE-Illinois rural provider — Pope+Hardin are RIDES, not Shawnee MTD) + Benefit Access free/reduced fare for 65+.
What you'll need
- Proof of age 60+ (or a Medicare card)
- Proof of Pope County / Illinois residency
- Photo identification
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-252-8966
Renewals
as-needed / pass multi-year
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.