Government: Partnership launches free taxi rides for veterans in Santa Clara County
Program possible thanks to a grant from office of Supervisor Otto Lee
By Staff Reports
Thanks to a partnership between Santa Clara County, Silicon Valley Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, and Yellow Cab of Silicon Valley is now providing free transportation assistance for veterans in Santa Clara County.
Veterans will be able to schedule a free taxi ride to medical appointments, job interviews, employment services, school or education activities, and other essential appointments. Scheduling a ride is easy, just call the county’s Office of Veterans Services at (408) 918-4980 to schedule pick-up.
“Since taking office we have focused grant funding supporting local organizations caring for our community,” said Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee.
The free ride program is thanks to a micro-grant from the Lee’s office to the MOAA-SVC, which coordinates the rides with the county’s Veterans Services Office. The first grant allocated $5,000 and a second grant awaiting approval will provide another $5,000.
Rides are now available for scheduling.
“Our veterans must have access to the services and resources they earned through their service to us,” Lee added. “Getting a ride should not be a barrier for veterans to visit a doctor, attend class, or engage with their community.”
MOAA-SVC President Ret. Col. Ray Watts said the service is a game changer.
“Providing reliable and accessible taxi services for veterans can significantly improve their quality of life and motility,” Watts said. “Veterans, especially those with disabilities or limited mobility, often face challenges in transportation, making it difficult for them to attend appointments, run errands, or participate in social activities, this really helps reduce stress and anxiety, too.”
This service aligns well with MOAA-SVC’s primary mission to support veterans and active-duty military members, and their families. Founded in 1950, the Silicon Valley chapter is fully committed to transparency and operational excellence while adhering to the warrior ethos. Ret. U.S. Army Colonel Ray Watts serves as president. Information available at svcmoaa.com.
VSO Director Darlyn Escalante said despite being a basic necessity, transportation has become increasingly challenging for veterans, especially in the Bay Area, due to high gas prices and the cost of public transit.
“I am thrilled to be part of a partnership that will address this need and better serve our veteran community,” he said. “This will not only provide reliable transportation but also enhance the quality of life for our veterans, ensuring they have access to the essential services and opportunities they deserve. Together, we are dedicated to making a tangible difference and honoring the sacrifices made by veterans.”
The VSO is a county and state funded agency established in 1944 to assist veterans, military personnel, and their families in obtaining federal, state, and local benefits earned through active-duty military service. Their office is located at 68 N. Winchester Boulevard, Santa Clara, and may be reached at (408) 918-4980, by email at [email protected], or online at veterans.sccgov.org/home.
Yellow Cab Director of Business Development Diana Melegrito said the company is proud to launch this new transportation program dedicated to serving the nation’s heroes.
“This initiative is designed to ensure veterans have reliable, comfortable, and convenient access to transportation,” Melegrito said. “Yellow Cab has always recognized the tremendous sacrifices made by our veterans. We are honored to be a part of this collaboration to support our veterans’ mobility.”
