Reliable transportation supports access to health care, groceries, benefits offices, work, social connection, and independent living. This page explains how to identify an appropriate Tampa Bay transportation resource and clearly separates QOLCS’s historical transportation work from services available today.
QOLCS transportation history
From 2011 through 2014, QOLCS and the New Freedom Riders program provided more than 13,000 trips across three counties through Federal Transit Administration and Florida Department of Transportation grant work. This is a historical accomplishment. QOLCS is not currently advertising an active ride-dispatch program.
Current transportation starting points
Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority
PSTA publishes Pinellas County route, fare, accessibility, and mobility-service information. Ask which service matches the rider’s disability, origin, destination, and scheduling needs.
Hillsborough Transit Authority
HART publishes Hillsborough County bus, streetcar, paratransit, fare, and rider information. Confirm service boundaries and application requirements directly with HART.
Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged
The Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged coordinates statewide policy and local networks for eligible people who cannot obtain their own transportation because of disability, age, income, or another qualifying condition. Local coordinators determine program processes.
VA beneficiary travel
Eligible veterans traveling for approved care may be able to request reimbursement or special transportation support. Review VA beneficiary travel information or contact the treating VA facility for current rules.
Prepare before you call
- Confirm the exact pickup and destination addresses, date, arrival time, and whether the trip repeats.
- Describe mobility equipment, vision or hearing needs, service-animal use, and whether a personal care attendant is required.
- Ask about applications, eligibility, advance-reservation deadlines, fares, cancellations, and service boundaries.
- Ask whether the ride is curb-to-curb, door-to-door, door-through-door, fixed-route, or mileage reimbursement.
- Create a backup plan for time-sensitive medical appointments; QOLCS cannot guarantee third-party transportation availability.
Accessibility and rider safety
Keep emergency contacts and essential medication with the rider when appropriate, but do not send medical records unless a transportation provider specifically requires them through a secure process. Report accessibility concerns to the operating agency and retain trip dates, reservation numbers, and written notices.
Resource links last reviewed July 20, 2026. Third-party eligibility, hours, and services can change; verify details with the listed organization.
How QOLCS can help now
QOLCS currently provides free information, resources, referrals, and appointment-based guidance while direct programs are rebuilt. We can help Tampa Bay residents identify a useful starting point, prepare questions, and locate an appropriate public agency or community resource. QOLCS does not determine program eligibility and cannot guarantee that a third-party provider will accept a referral.