Middletown Township Announces Wellness Wheels Program to Provide Transportation for Residents to Healthcare Appointments & Services
First Town in Monmouth County to Utilize Opioid Settlement Funds to Help Residents Ensure Access to Healthcare
For Immediate Release – February 13, 2025
MIDDLETOWN, NJ – At the Monday, February 3rd Township Committee Meeting, the Middletown Township Committee unanimously passed a resolution to award Uber Health the contract for Middletown Wellness Wheels. The new program, which will be funded through a portion of the Opioid Settlement Funds awarded by the state, will provide free local transportation for residents with substance use disorders, at risk of substance use disorders, or those who need access to mental health services. Middletown Township is the first municipality in Monmouth County to utilize the settlement funds in this manner.
According to studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health, the greatest barrier to accessing health services remains the lack of adequate and affordable transportation. This is highlighted where individuals either do not have their own vehicle or are unable to drive an automobile. Additionally, using NJ Transit bus routes throughout the town and region are extremely limited in terms of times and stops needed for health-related destinations and can be difficult to use for those with physical disabilities.
“The health and wellness of our residents is of utmost importance,” said Mayor Tony Perry. “We hope our community members will take advantage of this unique program that will help ease overall health barriers caused by limited transportation options while also paving a path toward wellness.”
The Township expects the program to be up and running by April. For general program inquiries, please contact the Middletown Township Health Department at 732-615-2277. Information will be available soon by visiting middletownnj.org/wellnesswheels.
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