As a social worker I have assisted clients in all walks of life.  Through this role, I have been able to see needs that our residents have and ways in which these needs are going unmet. Often times, I am able to walk with clients through periods of struggle and frustration. Many times, I am able to connect my clients with resources to help them overcome harships.  However, there has been a common area of need within our city that has gone unmet; public transportation.

Many of my clients  are individuals whose incomes are below the federal poverty threshold . Most, if not all of my clients, use Clarks Transit System (CTS) to commute to work, school and personal activities.  Clarksville Transit System has a wonderful public transit service that serves the residents of Clarksville exceptionally well.  However, I would like to see services expanded in our city.

Presently, our buses do not run on Sundays.  A lack of access to public transportation on the weekend is causing great strain on many residents. Most of my clients work in healthcare as CNAs, the food service industry, and retail. All of these positions require the ability to work on the weekends which is not a feasible option for these individuals. Clients, have had to turn down positions or have been let go due to limited weekend availabilty. Children, cannot access many events that are offered across town on Sundays. Residents are unable to attend religious services due to a lack of transportation.

We are requesting for services to be expanded to include operations on Sunday. Doing so will empower our residents in their work and personal life. Many will have access to healthcare services such as the urgent care. We can expect that families will be able to participate in activities across the city.  Residents will become more successful in the workforce. Overall, this expansion will improve the overall quality of life for our residents.