Veterans can get needed travel assistance

THOMPSON FALLS — The Disabled Veterans Volunteer Transportation Network, who serve veterans in Sanders County, has enlarged its service area. Beginning this month, veterans in Ronan, St. Ignatius and the surrounding area can call the Thompson Falls coordinator at 242-0217 to arrange travel to their VA scheduled appointments in Montana or to travel connections beyond.

This is made possible due to the increasing number of veterans using the existing service. The DAV Transportation committee has based a vehicle in Plains to take care of vets there and in Lake County as needed. This new arrangement will allow for two Sanders County vehicles to travel in different directions on the same day and will decrease calls to other areas for their help in meeting veterans’ travel needs.

Drivers are needed in the Plains area to answer this increased workload. A valid Montana driver’s license and proof of current insurance is all that is required to be a volunteer. The volunteer’s insurance will simply verify that there is no reason the volunteer should not be driving. Following application, the VA will schedule a physical examination and training at the Fort Harrison VA hospital in Helena. Transportation will be provided to attend that appointment. Applicants call 242-0217 for more information.