MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (Sept. 10, 2025) - Manatee County’s Manatee Moves Veterans program has provided more than 1,119 free rides to local veterans as of Thursday, marking a major milestone for the on-demand transportation service launched earlier this year.
“Manatee Moves Veterans is a shining example of how local government can make a direct impact in people’s lives,” said Mike Rahn, Manatee County District 4 Commissioner and Marine Corps veteran. “By removing transportation barriers, we are honoring the service of our veterans and ensuring they have access to the health care and resources they need.”
The service, introduced in January by the County’s Veterans Services and Transportation divisions, offers free door-to-door transportation to verified veterans for medical and dental appointments and visits to the Manatee County Veterans Services office. Riders may schedule up to two one-way trips per day within county boundaries.
“Exceeding 1,000 rides so quickly shows the strong demand and vital importance of this program,” said Sarah Brown, director of Community and Veterans Services for Manatee County. “We want every veteran in Manatee County to know this service is available, reliable and designed specifically with them in mind.”
To register, veterans must call Manatee County Veterans Services at (941) 745-3795. A brief intake is required, and veterans will need to present their DD-214 or discharge papers for eligibility. If documents are unavailable, staff can assist in requesting them.
Once approved, veterans are added to the Manatee Moves app, which allows booking a ride 24/7 through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Bookings can also be made by phone at (941) 747-1739 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Service hours run from 5:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Riders can book trips up to three days in advance or request the next available driver.
If a location or provider is missing from the system, veterans may call the booking line to submit a request. Riders no longer need to verify or add an address before traveling. When booking a trip to a medical facility, doctor or dental office, pharmacy or a Manatee County Veterans Services appointment, they will be asked, "Is this a medical trip?" Riders must respond "yes" to receive service. Trips to Manatee County Veterans Services are classified as medical trips due to the nature of the benefits discussed during those visits.
Community & Veterans Services Department
We are the friendly faces and helping hands that guide residents to resources that improve their quality of life . . .