OATS Transit, a Missouri based not-for-profit transportation provider, announced today that it has received a grant from Stone County Missouri Government totaling $20,000. These funds come from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). The grant will be used to support public transportation in Stone County and assist with the economic shortfall left by the pandemic.
The Stone County ARPA funds are intended to respond to the negative impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency, and safety. By financing projects proposed by Stone County, the funds will support economic recovery and improve the public health, safety and welfare of Stone County residents.
“OATS Transit continued to operate throughout the pandemic to ensure local residents got to medical care, work, and other community resources,” said Jeff Robinson, OATS Transit Regional Director. “We are still seeing a decrease in Stone County service post-pandemic, so these funds will help cover expenses for vehicle maintenance, fuel, insurance,
and driver wages to overcome the pandemic shortfall” added Robinson.
Stone County Missouri residents wanting to schedule rides should call the OATS Transit office at 417-887-9272 or 800-770-6287. Bus schedules can be found online at oatstransit.org/schedules.
OATS, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit corporation providing specialized transportation for rural residents of any age, seniors, and individuals with disabilities in 87 Missouri counties. OATS Transit is the largest and most unique transportation provider of its kind in the country. Follow us at www.Facebook.com/oatstransit Would you like to change careers and drive one of these buses? Check out our job openings on our website for positions near you.