Homage Senior Services was recently recognized for its unwavering commitment to improving transportation access across Snohomish County. During the Lynnwood City Center Station Celebration in late August, Juli Rose, Homage’s Sr. Director of Government Funded Programs and Operations, received the prestigious “Award of Excellence” from the Snohomish County Transportation Coalition (Snotrac). This award honors her outstanding leadership in forging partnerships and skillfully managing financial and programmatic resources to ensure the continuation and expansion of critical transportation services throughout the region.

In addition to Rose’s recognition, local community advocate Alan Gossett was awarded for his relentless advocacy for citizens in rural Snohomish County. Gossett’s efforts were instrumental in securing additional funding for Homage’s Transportation Assistance Program (TAP) from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

TAP: A Lifeline for Mobility

TAP provides an invaluable service, offering affordable, reliable curb-side transportation to older adults and people living with disabilities. For just $1.75 per ride, TAP helps individuals in rural areas access healthcare, meal sites, shopping, and even employment. For those who need additional connections, TAP integrates with various transportation networks, including DART, Everett Paratransit, and ACCESS.

For Jon Howe, a rural northwest Snohomish County resident who is non-ambulatory due to Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), TAP has become a lifeline. Before TAP’s expansion into his area, Howe was confined to his home due to the lack of accessible transportation options. His husband, Alan Gossett, recognized the dire need for para-transport services and advocated for change. His efforts paid off when WSDOT allocated $400,000 in additional funding specifically for expanding TAP’s service to the Lake Goodwin area, where Gossett and Howe reside.

Community and Partnership in Action

The infusion of WSDOT funds not only brings accessible transportation to rural northwest Snohomish County but also frees up existing TAP resources to serve other areas of the county. With more funds available, TAP can now reduce waitlists and ensure that even more riders in Snohomish County have access to the transportation they need.

Homage is deeply grateful for the support from WSDOT and the generosity of the community, which contributed over $18,000 to help families like Jon and Alan. This collaborative spirit is at the heart of Homage’s mission, allowing us to continue serving and uplifting the most vulnerable members of our community.

The $418,000 in funding will benefit Snohomish riders in the following ways:

• Homage can provide an additional 8,736 riders between now and June 30th, 2025
• Homage riders are available six days a week, including Saturdays, thanks to the creation of a new pilot program.
• Due to this generous funding, folks who may have been unable to find a ride in the past can now climb aboard!

The honors bestowed on Juli Rose and Alan Gossett underscore the power of advocacy and partnership. Together, we are building a future where every Snohomish County resident can stay connected, maintain their independence, and live with dignity.