How to apply for Senior & Disabled Transit (Powhatan County Ride Assist Services) — Powhatan in Virginia
Powhatan Department of Social Services — Ride Assist Services
Who it's for
Powhatan County has no fixed-route public transit. Ride Assist Services (RAS) is a free volunteer-driver program run by the Powhatan Department of Social Services for county residents 'age 65 and above and unable to drive for basic needs' — medical and dental appointments, grocery shopping, pharmacy, and personal business such as banking. Riders register with a short application, request rides at least 5 business days ahead (2 weeks for the wheelchair-accessible van), and may take one ride per week; trips stay within Powhatan, Chesterfield, and Richmond. Donations are accepted but never required. The Span Center's Ride Connection hotline ((804) 672-4495) also arranges rides for Powhatan residents 60+ and people with disabilities. Call 804-698-0438 to register or request a ride.
Riders must also be unable to drive themselves; rides depend on volunteer availability and the county's rider guidelines set the final eligibility, so this shows as a may-qualify result.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Ride Assist Services rider application (asks for your date of birth, Powhatan address, and the physical condition that keeps you from driving)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 804-698-0438
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Senior & Disabled Transit (Powhatan County Ride Assist Services) — Powhatan. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need ride Assist Services rider application (asks for your date of birth, Powhatan address, and the physical condition that keeps you from driving) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
per trip (request 5 business days ahead; 2 weeks for the wheelchair van)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.