Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte

When stopping driving turns a medical appointment into a logistics problem, Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte offers a community option for essential trips. Volunteer drivers take participants to appointments within Mecklenburg County; the program may also help with essential errands, but the request should explain the destination and purpose.

The service is for people age 55 and older who live in the county, and both the home and appointment must be within Mecklenburg. Rides are free. Call the Essential Transportation line at (704) 365-1995, option 2, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The center requests at least five business days’ notice.

The program depends on volunteers and says it cannot guarantee every ride. A request is confirmed only after speaking with a scheduler; if no driver is available, the organization gives 24 hours’ notice. Riders must transfer in and out of the vehicle independently. Canes, walkers, and rollators are accepted, but wheelchairs cannot currently be accommodated.

This is not emergency transport or clinical escort. It fits someone who can make the transfer without physical assistance and can plan ahead. If a rider does not meet the mobility rule or a trip falls outside the service area, the county’s Just1Call and Mecklenburg Transportation System can discuss other options.

Have the address, appointment date and time, destination, mobility equipment, and a contact phone ready when calling. The organization can explain volunteer availability and confirm whether the trip qualifies as essential. Do not assume a ride is booked until a scheduler confirms it.

Official program information