Lynx, Orange County partner to offer free rides to convention center for COVID-19 vaccines

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Leaders are focused on helping seniors without access to transportation get their COVID-19 shot.

Orange County has partnered with Lynx to offer them free rides to the Convention Center.

Orange County spearheaded the new program, knowing there are some seniors who don’t have a car, or can’t easily access public transportation.

READ: 2 women dressed as ‘grannies’ denied second COVID-19 vaccine at Orange County Convention Center

Seniors started calling immediately, including 69-year-old Roxane Alaimo.

“(I want to) do my part to be part of ... getting everyone immune,” she said.

For a while, she was actually avoiding making an appointment at the Convention Center because it’s about 30 minutes from her home, which she said would be too much for her.

READ: Step-by-step guide: What to expect during COVID-19 vaccine appointment at the Orange County Convention Center

“I do drive, but I do not feel comfortable in those stressful situations,” Alaimo said.

But when she heard about the partnership with Lynx, she made her vaccine appointment and called 311, and staff booked her a ride.

The driver then drove Alaimo to an observation area. If she started to feel bad, they were told to honk the horn and turn on the hazard lights.

READ: Florida may not receive more COVID-19 vaccines until next week due to winter weather, DeSantis says

After 15 minutes, she was “good to go,” and the driver took her right back home.

She hopes others take advantage of the program, too.

“(It’s) been very easy and I’m very thankful to get there without the stress of doing it myself,” Alaimo said.

The program isn’t just for residents in Orange County. Lynx will also pick up people in Osceola and Seminole counties. Rides must be requested at least 48 hours before your appointment.

Click here to register.

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