Grant to help Kosciusko Community Senior Services transportation program

Kosciusko Community Senior Services member Mildred McNeal is assisted by driver Roger Gaston to her appointment at Grossnickle Eye Center last week. Photo provided.

The Grossnickle Foundation, a donor-advised fund at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, awarded Kosciusko Community Senior Services a $2,500 grant to support its transportation program.

Kosciusko Community Senior Services provides support services to senior members of the Kosciusko County community, with programs such as Mobile Meals, disabled van transportation and a Senior Activity Center, according to a provided news release.

The organizations’ transportation program typically provides more than 14,000 rides to its members each year, prioritizing medical and nutritional needs. The grant from the Grossnickle Foundation will fund at least 300 rides this year, according to Kosciusko Community Senior Services Executive Director David Neff.

“This grant couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Neff. “Demand for our transportation services has gone up this past year, with additional trips being made for COVID testing and vaccination appointments.”

“We are so appreciative of this donation, and the continued support from this community,” said Neff. “Kosciusko Community Senior Services received another grant from the Community Foundation last year, which enabled us to modify our vans with clear barriers to make travelling safer for our members.”

The Grossnickle Foundation was established by Drs. Paul, Steve and Bruce Grossnickle as a way to give back to the community and engage their employees. Grossnickle Eye Center employees are encouraged to submit requests for funding of a local non-profit, and these requests guide how the Foundation’s annual grants are awarded.

Kosciusko County Community Foundation has helped donors to achieve their charitable dreams since 1968. The Community Foundation is a public charity that grants approximately $3 million annually in the areas of education, health, arts and culture, recreation, civic projects, environment and human services.