With New Transportation Offering, Oracle and Saline Area Social Service Help Local Seniors Stay On the Move

For many seniors, a friendly ride across town is much more than a convenience. It means they can shop for groceries, socialize with their friends, and make it to the doctor on time-all critical components of a healthy, engaged life.

But getting a ride when they need one isn't always easy for seniors. Maybe they live alone and don't drive, or they need to stretch their budget on a fixed income, leaving fewer dollars for a rideshare or cab. Perhaps they have mobility issues that make even a short trip on their own difficult. And some are facing all three challenges at once.

To help, Saline Area Social Service (SASS) has launched a new senior transportation program, made possible in part with support from Oracle. The organization has purchased a handicapped-accessible passenger van and is targeting 30 rides per week, picking up seniors directly from their home so they can get to essential errands and appointments, and continue living independent, connected lives.

"We know how important reliable transportation is to everyone's lives, especially our seniors," said Jamail Aikens, executive director, SASS. "Getting them active and engaged in the community benefits us all, and Oracle's support has helped get our van program rolling in full swing."

SASS plans to roll out the program in phases, starting with visits to the organization's food pantry where community members can shop for groceries at no cost. Later phases will add transportation to the Saline Area Senior Center for wellness, educational, and social programs. Rides to University of Michigan Health facilities in Ann Arbor will also be available.

In addition, Oracle is supporting SASS's food pantry for families and individuals. In 2025 alone, SASS helped 655 local residents-two-thirds of them children or seniors. It also provided local residents with nearly $400,000 in groceries and essentials, as well as more than 166,000 meals.

Meanwhile, the new van program helps seniors plan out their week confidently.

"With limited options in Saline, these rides are more than transportation, they're peace of mind," said one senior, "I can feel connected to what's going on in my community, while maintaining my independence."

"Helping seniors stay on the move is about more than transportation," said Colleen Cassity, vice president of Social Impact, Oracle. "It's about giving neighbors access to the resources and community connections they need to thrive. We're proud to join SASS in making a meaningful difference for Saline residents."

This commitment is part of Oracle's broader investments in the State of Michigan and Saline Township.