Alderman Peter de Vrij conducted the first ANWB AutoMaatje ride in the municipality of Den Helder on Monday, April 14th. This new transportation service connects volunteers with residents with limited mobility, enabling them to reintegrate into society. ANWB AutoMaatje is an initiative of the ANWB in collaboration with Humanitas. The municipality of Den Helder contributed to the launch.
A growing social mobility problem
In the Netherlands, approximately 1 million people, including those over 65 and those with health disabilities, are homebound due to transportation challenges. ANWB AutoMaatje offers a solution for this group. Many people with limited mobility have no one in their community to rely on for transportation or practical assistance. Moreover, there is often insufficient suitable transportation available. Even if someone is available, this can be a significant burden. ANWB AutoMaatje offers a solution: a network in which volunteers transport people in their own cars for a small mileage allowance.
Important for social participation
Alderman Peter de Vrij emphasizes the importance of this initiative: "Mobility is crucial for social participation. With ANWB AutoMaatje, we ensure that people don't become isolated and that they can get out and about, for example, to visit family, go grocery shopping, or keep a doctor's appointment."“
A successful approach
The initiative is growing rapidly. ANWB AutoMaatje is now active in more than 120 municipalities and over 600 towns. With approximately 4,200 volunteers, nearly 300,000 rides were provided by 2023 for approximately 40,000 residents with limited mobility. The millionth ride since the initiative's inception is expected in 2025. Brian de Wit of Humanitas adds: "We want to offer residents a chance to get out and about again, with customized transportation."“
More information and registration
Are you less mobile and need transportation? Or would you like to volunteer for this valuable initiative? Then please contact Humanitas. By phone at 06-51042078 (Mondays and Thursdays only, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM). Or email [email protected] or visit www.humanitas.nl/afdeling/kop-van-noord-holland/wat-we-doen/automaatje/. Together we make mobility possible!
