Private ride service caters to seniors

Envoy America, which has been expanding its door-to-door transportation service for seniors to other parts of the country since it started in Arizona in 2012, is now in Pierce, King and Thurston counties.

The business, which bills itself as a more affordable alternative to taxis, hires drivers who use their own vehicles to transport clients for errands, medical appointments and social outings. Rides can be requested online or by phone.

The drivers, who are all at least 50 years old and can work full-time or part-time, are screened and drug-tested. They help passengers, including wheelchair users, in and out of vehicles and receive training for interactions with passengers who have memory issues, according to the company.

Co-founder K.C. Kanaan has said his company “is the perfect solution for seniors who don’t want to drive, really shouldn’t drive, or simply can no longer drive safely.”

Envoy America can be contacted for information and reservations at envoyamerica.com and 888-375-5558.