Fort Lauderdale Launches Nation’s First Free Bus Loop for those Experiencing Homelessness | Opinion

Rotary Club Aims to Break Transportation Barriers and Restore Dignity

In what organizers are calling a first-of-its-kind initiative in the United States, the Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale is launching a free weekday bus loop to connect those experiencing homelessness in Broward County, with vital services ranging from healthcare and job training to legal aid and recovery programs. The service, known as Rotary Connection, started operations on Aug. 4 following a launch event at the Fort Lauderdale location of the Fellowship Recovery Community Organization. The project was the original concept of Rick Riccardi, Board Chairman of FCRO and a former President of the Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale. Many in the community recognized the concept as viable and got on board to volunteer to make it happen, including Pastor Ralph Giachetti, the CEO and President of Go Therefore Ministry, Gwynne Beatty, Member, Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale and Garry Smyth, long-time Board Member, Fellowship RCO, a successful entrepreneur and longtime community leader, and many others.

Garry Smyth, said, “The goal is simple: remove transportation barriers that keep people from getting help.”

“This isn’t just a bus — it’s a practical solution to a major gap in service delivery,” Riccardi said. “By removing transportation barriers, we’re improving access to care and helping people take steps toward stability, permanent housing solutions and self-sufficiency.” Read the full article at Out South Florida: https://outsfl.com/being-bobby-blair/fort-lauderdale-launches-nations-first-free-bus-loop-for-those-experiencing-homelessness-opinion