Kindergarten readiness begins long before a child enters a classroom. It begins with a healthy pregnancy, consistent prenatal care, and access to pediatric services during a child’s first year of life.
For many families in Leon County, transportation is a barrier to that care.
To address this challenge, Children’s Services Council of Leon County funded the expansion of 2-1-1 Big Bend’s Lyft™ program to include Perinatal and Pediatrician Transportation Assistance. The program provides ridesharing vouchers to eligible families throughout pregnancy and up to an infant’s first birthday. The goal is simple: ensure mothers and babies can access care when they need it most.
In 2025, the program delivered 2,176 trips to 123 women and their children, connecting families to prenatal appointments, pediatric visits, and follow-up care. Every ride represents a prenatal checkup kept, a well-baby visit completed, or an early concern addressed before it becomes a crisis.
Transportation is a social determinant of health. By removing this barrier, CSC Leon strengthens maternal health outcomes and supports healthy early childhood development, both of which are foundational to kindergarten readiness. When families can access care consistently during pregnancy and a child’s first year, children are more likely to arrive at school healthy, supported, and ready to learn.
This investment reflects CSC Leon’s commitment to addressing root causes and building a stronger start for every child in our community.
If you or someone you know needs support, dial 2-1-1 to connect with local resources or visit them online at https://211bigbend.org/.
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