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Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Idaho

Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Idaho

Last updated: September 2025. For fast help, save these official pages now: Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine (statewide referrals) and Idaho Transportation Department Public Transportation directory. Both sites list verified, statewide options and current phone numbers. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

  • Call now: dial 2‑1‑1 and say you need “transportation help today” for work, childcare, medical, or safety; ask for gas cards, bus passes, same‑day ride programs, and domestic‑violence safe transport. Use the backup number 1‑800‑926‑2588 and the text line 898‑211 if you can’t get through. See details at Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and the agency’s Contact DHW quick numbers page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
  • If the trip is for healthcare: schedule a Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) ride with Idaho’s broker MTM at 1‑877‑503‑1261; urgent discharges and urgent care rides are available 24/7, with a one‑hour window. You can also use the MTM Link app. Learn more on Idaho Medicaid NEMT and MTM Idaho Members. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
  • Use local on‑demand transit where available: in Idaho Falls, book GIFT at 1‑208‑999‑4438 or the app; rides are typically 4‑4‑6 and run Mon‑Sat with after‑hours options. For Twin Falls, “Ride TFT” on‑demand rides start near $3—call 1‑208‑974‑7433 or use the app. See Greater Idaho Falls Transit and Ride TFT Twin Falls Transit. (greateriftransit.com)

Quick Help Box — Phone Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Who This Guide Is For

This guide focuses on practical, fast transportation help single moms can actually use in Idaho. You’ll find state and local options with working numbers, realistic timelines, and backup plans. Keep the official directories at Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and Idaho Transportation Department Public Transportation open while you read, so you can call as you go. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)


Medical Appointments — Get There First

The fastest reliable ride for healthcare, if you’re on Medicaid, is through Idaho’s non‑emergency medical transportation system. Call MTM at 1‑877‑503‑1261, schedule online, or use the mobile app; urgent rides (urgent care, ER discharge, inpatient discharge) can be arranged 24/7 and are targeted within about an hour. See MTM Idaho Members for booking rules and DHW’s NEMT contract page for oversight contacts. (mtm-inc.net)

Eligibility and timing: you must be an Idaho Medicaid member going to a covered service, and you should call at least two business days ahead for non‑urgent trips; same‑day requests may be denied if not urgent. Use the MTM Link web or mobile portal any time. Check About Medicaid for Adults and MTM’s member FAQs to confirm details before you book. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

If your ride is late: call 1‑877‑503‑1261 and choose the late ride option; for complaints use 1‑866‑436‑0457. If you need interpreter support, call 1‑888‑561‑8747. These numbers are listed on MTM Idaho Members and mirrored on DHW’s Medicaid pages. (mtm-inc.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your clinic’s front desk to schedule through the MTM Link provider portal (they can request “urgent”—hospital discharge, urgent care), and use your local transit in the meantime. Start with Valley Regional Transit trip planning and the statewide ITD provider directory to find a bus or on‑demand ride near you. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

Quick NEMT reference

Program How to schedule When to call Notes
MTM Idaho Medicaid NEMT 1‑877‑503‑1261; MTM Link web/app 24/7 for urgent; ≥2 business days for routine Urgent/discharge trips targeted in ≤1 hour; complaints 1‑866‑436‑0457; interpreter line 1‑888‑561‑8747. (mtm-inc.net)
DHW NEMT contract team 1‑800‑296‑0509; MedicaidTransport@dhw.idaho.gov Business hours Use if you need state oversight help with a chronic problem. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Keep your Medicaid card, appointment details, pickup address, and provider address ready. If you’re in Moscow, note that SMART Transit Dial‑A‑Ride can be requested as your NEMT provider once MTM approves the trip. (smarttransit.org)

Public Transit You Can Use Today

Idaho’s public transit is regional and often free or low‑cost. Start with the statewide directory on Idaho Transportation Department’s Public Transportation page, then call your local agency for same‑day route help or paratransit. In Boise‑area communities, use Valley Regional Transit (VRT); in Idaho Falls use GIFT On‑Demand; in Kootenai County ride free on Citylink. (itd.idaho.gov)

Fares and discounts: VRT’s standard local fare is 1.50perridewithcappingviatheUmoapp;youth,seniors,Medicare,andpeoplewithdisabilitiesgetreducedrates.GIFTfaresarecurrently1.50 per ride with capping via the Umo app; youth, seniors, Medicare, and people with disabilities get reduced rates. GIFT fares are currently 4 on‑demand and 6scheduled;after‑hoursridescost6 scheduled; after‑hours rides cost 10. Check VRT Fares & Passes and GIFT Ride Fares to confirm before riding. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

Free systems: Mountain Rides in the Wood River Valley is fare‑free year‑round; SPOT in Bonner/Boundary counties is also free, with dial‑a‑ride in Boundary County. See Mountain Rides contact and SPOT Bus contact for live assistance. (mountainrides.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask 2‑1‑1 to search for “gas vouchers,” “bus passes,” or a “volunteer driver program” in your county, and check Community Action in your region for CSBG‑funded transportation support. Use Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and DHW’s CSBG page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Public transit directory snapshot (quick start)

Region/Area Agency Phone Key notes
Boise–Meridian–Nampa/Caldwell Valley Regional Transit 1‑208‑345‑7433 Fixed routes, VRT On‑Demand, airport service; Umo fare capping. (valleyregionaltransit.org)
Idaho Falls (city limits) Greater Idaho Falls Transit (GIFT) 1‑208‑999‑4438 On‑demand rides Mon‑Sat; after‑hours option. (greateriftransit.com)
Twin Falls Ride TFT (City of Twin Falls) 1‑208‑974‑7433 On‑demand microtransit; typical fares from ~$3. (ridetft.com)
Coeur d’Alene/Post Falls Kootenai County Citylink 1‑208‑446‑1618 Free fixed routes; paratransit info via county site. (kcgov.us)
Sandpoint/Bonners Ferry SPOT Bus 1‑208‑263‑3774 Free routes; Boundary County dial‑a‑ride (no fare). (spotbus.org)
Pocatello/Bannock area Pocatello Regional Transit 1‑208‑234‑2287 Fixed route $1; door‑to‑door options. (pocatellotransit.com)
Wood River Valley (Ketchum/Hailey) Mountain Rides 1‑208‑788‑7433 Fare‑free routes all year. (mountainrides.org)
Lewiston/Clarkston Listed at ITD transit directory 1‑208‑298‑1340 Check “Lewiston Transit” listing. (itd.idaho.gov)

Fast Local Options — On‑Demand and First/Last‑Mile

Some Idaho systems run app‑based microtransit that behaves like a pooled rideshare. Idaho Falls (GIFT) and Twin Falls (Ride TFT) can often pick you up near your home; VRT has first/last‑mile solutions including Lyft integrations. See GIFT schedule and hours, Ride TFT start riding, and VRT + Lyft Pass overview. (greateriftransit.com)

In the Panhandle, SPOT offers free dial‑a‑ride in Boundary County on select days; call a day ahead. Check SPOT Boundary County service and the city’s Sandpoint transportation page for local details. (spotbus.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your employer about vanpools through ACHD Commuteride, which covers vehicle, fuel, and insurance and includes an Emergency Ride Home up to $300/year. Search routes at ACHD Commuteride Vanpool and find carpools at ShareTheRideIdaho. (commuteride.com)

Fuel, Repairs, and Car Access — Where to Ask

If you’re not near transit or work shifts don’t match bus hours, ask about small, short‑term help for gas and repairs. Community Action Agencies can use CSBG funds for transportation based on local priorities; the South Central agency publicly lists “Transportation Assistance.” Start with DHW’s CSBG program page and South Central Community Action Partnership (SCCAP). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Faith‑based agencies sometimes provide bus passes, gas cards, or volunteer rides when funding allows. Call the St. Vincent de Paul Helpline (Ada County/Mountain Home 1‑208‑331‑2208; Caldwell 1‑208‑919‑2940; Nampa 1‑208‑466‑3400) and ask specifically about “transportation help.” See SVDP Southwest Idaho — Help Line and the main Get Help page. (svdpid.org)

The Salvation Army may provide limited gas vouchers in some locations, and Project Share (via Idaho Power/Intermountain Gas) helps with utility emergencies so you can keep car funds for travel. Contact the Boise Family Services office at 1‑208‑433‑4424 and review Project Share (Boise Corps) and Intermountain Gas’s Project Share centers. Always call to confirm local availability. (boise.salvationarmy.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask 2‑1‑1 for a same‑day referral to “transportation—work related” and “car repair—emergency” and request Community Action “navigation” help. Use Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and your local agency directory on ITD’s transit page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Work and Training Programs That Can Pay for Transportation

If you’re job‑seeking or training, you may qualify for transportation support through SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) or WIOA services, and in some cases through Vocational Rehabilitation.

SNAP Employment & Training (E&T): Idaho contracts with MAXIMUS; participants can receive “support vouchers” for work‑related costs such as transportation, clothing, and tools while engaged. Contact MAXIMUS at 1‑844‑977‑1600 and see Idaho E&T program page and E&T provider resources (50/50 reimbursement). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

WIOA Adult/Dislocated Worker (via Idaho Department of Labor): supportive services can include transportation when needed for training or job placement; service provider Equus has regional offices statewide. Check Adult & Dislocated Worker (IDL) and IdahoWorks (local office finder/events). (labor.idaho.gov)

Vocational Rehabilitation (IDVR): if you have a disability affecting work, VR can fund services tied to your employment plan; Extended Employment Services can include transportation to work for eligible clients. See IDVR office locations and DHW Extended Employment Services. Note a current waitlist (Order of Selection) was reported in July 2025—ask about your priority category. (vr.idaho.gov)

Former foster youth in college/training: the Education and Training Voucher (ETV) can cover “transportation needs” up to the annual cap. Learn how to apply at Idaho ETV and confirm school costs with your campus support office. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your local transit agency about low‑income pass programs or microtransit discounts, and ask Community Action to use CSBG funds as a bridge. Use VRT Fares and CSBG program. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

Work/Training transportation quick‑look table

Situation Who to call What to ask for
You receive SNAP and want a job MAXIMUS Idaho E&T 1‑844‑977‑1600 “Support vouchers for transportation while I’m in E&T” (bus, mileage, gas cards as available). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
You need short‑term training to get hired Idaho Department of Labor WIOA (see Equus office list) “Supportive services for transportation to training/interviews.” (labor.idaho.gov)
You have a disability and need rides to work Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation “Transportation support tied to my Individualized Plan for Employment; EES if I qualify.” (vr.idaho.gov)

Safety and Crisis Transportation

For survivors, programs can provide rides, bus passes, and safe relocation when funding allows. Start with advocacy groups in your county via the state coalition, and ask 2‑1‑1 to connect you to the nearest shelter program that can arrange transportation.

If you are in danger, call 9‑1‑1. For confidential support, contact the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence — Get Help and the state’s Council on Domestic Violence and Victim Assistance resources. Local programs (WCA Boise, Safe Passage in CdA, Advocates in Hailey, etc.) can often help with bus passes or rides when it’s part of a safety plan. (idvsa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask 2‑1‑1 to search for “victim services transportation,” and ask your caseworker to authorize a motel + cab/ride to keep you and your kids safe that night. Use Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and the coalition’s contact hub. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Tribal and Rural Mobility

Idaho’s tribal and rural systems fill gaps where no city bus exists. In the Panhandle, Citylink North (Kootenai County/CdA Tribe) is free; Nez Perce operate Appaloosa Express; the Shoshone‑Bannock Tribes run public transit at Fort Hall. Use ITD’s directory to call the right dispatcher quickly, and check Kootenai County Transit Services for free routes. (itd.idaho.gov)

If you work seasonally or commute across county lines, look at vanpools through ACHD Commuteride or rideshare matching via ShareTheRideIdaho. In Wood River Valley, Mountain Rides runs fare‑free service 365 days a year. (commuteride.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your tribe’s social services or TANF office if they can provide fuel vouchers for job‑related travel, and verify intercity bus connections (e.g., Northwestern Stage Lines) on ITD’s Intercity resources directory. (itd.idaho.gov)

Diverse Communities — Specific Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask shelters and transit agencies for a safe pickup point, and bring ID that matches your current name where possible. Use Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine to find LGBTQ‑friendly providers and the coalition’s Get Help directory to locate groups with inclusive services. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: call IDVR to ask about transportation tied to your employment plan, and ask your transit agency about ADA paratransit or microtransit door‑to‑door options. If eligible for Extended Employment Services, you may get rides to work through DHW’s EES program. (vr.idaho.gov)

Veteran single mothers: if you’re a Veteran or caregiver traveling for VA‑authorized care, you can claim mileage at $0.415/mile (with small deductibles) through VA’s Beneficiary Travel program, now also available via the VA Health & Benefits app. Learn more at VA Travel Pay and Mileage rate and rules; Boise VA main line is 1‑208‑422‑1000. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: ask Catholic Charities of Idaho about short‑term basic needs and referrals, and call Idaho Office for Refugees resource guide for local rides and English/Spanish resources. For legal issues that affect IDs or licenses, use CCI’s Immigration Services. (ccidaho.org)

Tribal members: consult your tribe’s transportation office for transit passes and demand‑response schedules, and check the ITD transit directory for direct numbers (e.g., Citylink South, Appaloosa Express, Fort Hall). Confirm hours and stops before you go. (itd.idaho.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: ask Community Action for CSBG “transportation assistance” and your county for volunteer driver programs. Try SCCAP in the Magic Valley and the statewide CSBG program page. (sccap-id.org)

Single fathers: these services are gender‑neutral; if you’re the custodial parent, you can use the same resources. Use Idaho 2‑1‑1 and your local transit agency to start. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Language access: ask for interpreters when scheduling MTM rides (free), and request large‑print applications or TTY (dial 711) with your transit agency. See MTM interpreter line info and Mountain Rides TTY/Relay details. (mtm-inc.net)

Resources by Region — What to Use Where You Live

Treasure Valley (Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell)

Start with Valley Regional Transit for routes, airport service, and VRT On‑Demand; Umo fare‑capping lowers your daily and monthly costs. For first/last‑mile gaps, explore VRT’s Lyft Pass options and Ada County’s Commuteride vanpools. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

If you need a bike to reach the bus, the Boise Bicycle Project runs low‑cost youth bikes and community programs; many bus racks carry bikes. In emergencies, call St. Vincent de Paul Helpline to ask for bus passes/gas; request “transportation help” when you leave your voicemail. (boisebicycleproject.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask United Way of Treasure Valley for a referral to a partner agency with transportation aid, and call Idaho 2‑1‑1 for a same‑day navigation appointment. (unitedwaytv.org)

Magic Valley (Twin Falls, Jerome, Minidoka, Cassia)

Use Ride TFT for citywide shared rides; call 1‑208‑974‑7433 if the app isn’t an option. For help with gas or a bus pass, contact South Central Community Action Partnership or the main line at 1‑800‑627‑1733. (ridetft.com)

If cash fares are hard, ask about paying by voucher or cash in the app (a 2025 update supports cash). For questions, the city transit coordinator is listed in KMVT’s feature on cash payments. (kmvt.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: try Community Action fuel funds and check ITD’s transit directory for rural routes or volunteer driver programs. (sccap-id.org)

Eastern Idaho (Idaho Falls, Rexburg, Rigby)

Book GIFT On‑Demand for city rides; fares are generally 4on‑demandand4 on‑demand and 6 scheduled, with late‑night rides at $10. If you’re in recovery services, ask your provider about “Rides to Recovery”—a 2025 pilot offers free rides for listed treatment locations. Start with EIPH’s release and local coverage from East Idaho News. (greateriftransit.com)

Need an employment plan with transportation built in? Call IDVR’s Idaho Falls office at 1‑208‑525‑7149 and ask about transportation within your VR plan; if waitlisted, ask your counselor about community partners. Use IdahoWorks to find local job programs that may cover rides. (vr.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask EICAP (Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership) about emergency funds and navigation, and call 2‑1‑1 for a same‑day referral. (intgas.com)

Southeastern Idaho (Pocatello, Blackfoot, American Falls)

Use Pocatello Regional Transit for $1 fixed‑route trips and door‑to‑door for qualified riders. If you’re a SNAP E&T participant, ask your MAXIMUS coach about transportation “support vouchers.” Find PRT office contacts on PRT contact page and E&T details on DHW’s E&T page. (pocatellotransit.com)

For crisis transportation, Family Services Alliance can coordinate rides as part of a safety plan. Also call SEICAA to ask about CSBG emergency support and fuel funds by county. (idvsa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “volunteer drivers” or an “urgent bus pass,” then check ITD’s directory for intercity options. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

North Idaho (Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden; Sandpoint/Bonners Ferry)

Ride free on Kootenai County Citylink; call 1‑208‑446‑1618 for fixed‑route and paratransit. In Bonner/Boundary, SPOT Bus is free; call 1‑208‑263‑3774 for Boundary County dial‑a‑ride scheduling. (kcgov.us)

Check if your clinic has a patient shuttle (e.g., Kootenai Health offers transport in its service area). Use the county page Transit Services and the city’s transit info or ask 2‑1‑1 to locate a volunteer ride. (kcgov.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: request Medicaid NEMT through MTM and ask your provider to help schedule if needed; some clinics can book rides using MTM Link for you. (mtm-inc.net)

North Central & Palouse (Lewiston, Moscow; Lapwai, Orofino)

In Moscow, SMART Transit is free with Dial‑A‑Ride options; Medicaid rides can be scheduled via MTM with SMART as the provider when approved. Lewiston listings and intercity links are on ITD’s directory; call local numbers to confirm schedules. (smarttransit.org)

For Nez Perce service areas, check Appaloosa Express via ITD’s provider list. If you’re a student family without stable housing, the state’s McKinney‑Vento program can arrange school transport—contact the coordinator through Idaho SDE Federal Programs. (itd.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask COAST (Council on Aging & Human Services) about rural rides and call 2‑1‑1 for county‑specific volunteer options. (itd.idaho.gov)

Support for Kids and School Trips

If your family lost housing, your child can get school transportation under the McKinney‑Vento Act. Ask your district’s homeless liaison for a ride plan right away, or contact the state coordinator at the Idaho Department of Education. Use SDE’s Homeless Education page and a general contact at SDE Contact. (sde.idaho.gov)

Head Start and Early Head Start sometimes provide or coordinate bus service depending on the grantee; call your local program to confirm. Statewide info is at Idaho Head Start Association and federal guidance is at HeadStart.gov Transportation. (idahohsa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: for a quick, low‑cost workaround, ask about youth bike programs (sliding‑scale or free) at the Boise Bicycle Project and check regional bike co‑ops; combine with transit racks and free systems like Mountain Rides. (boisebicycleproject.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the “urgent” window: many moms wait too long to call MTM for same‑day urgent rides; ask the clinic to mark discharges or urgent care as “urgent” when they book through MTM Link. Use MTM Idaho Members and share your provider’s DHW NEMT page. (mtm-inc.net)
  • Assuming every city has a bus: rural Idaho often uses free demand‑response or volunteer drivers instead of fixed routes. Search the state directory at ITD Public Transportation and call first. (itd.idaho.gov)
  • Not asking job programs to cover rides: SNAP E&T and WIOA can pay for transportation while you train or job‑hunt—ask up front. Use DHW E&T and IDL WIOA program. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Reality Check — Delays and Workarounds

Funding runs out: gas cards and repair funds at charities go fast each month. Call early, keep voicemail clear, and ask for “navigation” help through 2‑1‑1 to queue for the next cycle. The CSBG program page explains that services vary by county and funding. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

VR waitlist: vocational rehabilitation has an Order of Selection waitlist (reported July 2025), so ask about priority categories and interim supports from workforce partners. See Idaho Reports coverage and IDVR contacts. (blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org)

Microtransit demand spikes: on‑demand services can have long waits at peak times. In Twin Falls, local news noted improvements for cash riders but still limited driver supply. Watch the Ride TFT site and the app store page reviews to plan around busy hours. (ridetft.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First call Backup
Urgent medical ride (Medicaid) MTM 24/7 line 1‑877‑503‑1261 DHW NEMT Oversight 1‑800‑296‑0509. (mtm-inc.net)
Bus, microtransit, regional options ITD transit directory Valley Regional Transit 1‑208‑345‑7433 (for Treasure Valley help). (itd.idaho.gov)
Gas card or bus pass (charity) St. Vincent de Paul Help Line Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine for more options. (svdpid.org)
Job‑related transportation DHW SNAP E&T Idaho Dept. of Labor WIOA offices. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Veteran mileage reimbursement VA Travel Pay Mileage rate details. (va.gov)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

If Your Application Gets Denied

Start with the reason: ask for the denial code and how to fix it (missing docs, not eligible, not enough notice). For Medicaid rides, use the MTM We Care line and, if unresolved, contact DHW’s NEMT team. See MTM complaint process and DHW NEMT page. (mtm-inc.net)

Create a short, clean appeal packet: 1–2 pages with your name, ID, trip purpose, dates/times, the rule they applied, and exactly what you’re requesting. If it’s work related, include a letter from your employer or trainer; for school transport, ask your district liaison in writing using SDE McKinney‑Vento contacts. (sde.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: request a navigator via Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and ask Community Action to bridge costs for one month while you reapply. See CSBG overview for eligibility. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

County‑Specific Notes and Variations

Tips to Save Time and Money

Useful Tables You Can Screenshot

Boise Metro: VRT fares at a glance

Pass type Local fare Reduced fare Notes
Single ride $1.50 $0.75 Reduced for youth 6–18, seniors 65+, disabilities, Medicare. (valleyregionaltransit.org)
Day pass $2.50 $1.25 Use Umo for fare capping. (valleyregionaltransit.org)
31‑day pass $42 $21 Buy on Umo or at stations. (valleyregionaltransit.org)
One‑year pass $282 $282 Special pricing; inquire at VRT offices. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

On‑Demand Systems

City Service Booking Typical fare
Idaho Falls GIFT On‑Demand App or 1‑208‑999‑4438 4on‑demand;4 on‑demand; 6 scheduled; $10 late night. (greateriftransit.com)
Twin Falls Ride TFT App or 1‑208‑974‑7433 From ~$3; cash now easier for app riders. (ridetft.com)
Boise metro VRT + Lyft Pass Lyft app Price‑lock options for first/last‑mile. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

Free Systems

Area Agency Highlights
Coeur d’Alene Citylink North Fare‑free routes; county‑managed paratransit. (kcgov.us)
Sandpoint/Boundary SPOT Bus Free fixed routes; Boundary dial‑a‑ride days. (spotbus.org)
Wood River Valley Mountain Rides Fare‑free 365 days; ADA and valley commuter options. (mountainrides.org)

Employment‑Linked Options

Program What it covers How to apply
SNAP E&T Support vouchers (transportation, tools, fees) during participation Contact MAXIMUS E&T or your DHW worker. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
WIOA (Adult/Dislocated Worker) Supportive services including transport for training/job search Visit Idaho Dept. of Labor WIOA or an Equus office. (labor.idaho.gov)
Vocational Rehabilitation Transportation tied to IPE; EES can provide work rides Call IDVR; note current waitlist realities. (vr.idaho.gov)

Health‑Related Travel (Veterans)

Benefit Rate Where to file
VA Beneficiary Travel $0.415/mile; small monthly deductible caps File in BTSSS or the VA app; Boise VA 1‑208‑422‑1000. (va.gov)

FAQs — Idaho Transportation Help for Single Moms

How do I get a same‑day medical ride if I’m on Medicaid: Call MTM at 1‑877‑503‑1261 and say the word “urgent” if it’s an urgent care visit, hospital discharge, or similar. Ask your clinic to schedule through MTM Link if you can’t call. See MTM Idaho Members and DHW NEMT page. (mtm-inc.net)

Is there really free public transit in North Idaho: Yes—Kootenai County Citylink and SPOT are fare‑free; paratransit and boundary dial‑a‑ride options are available. See Kootenai County Transit Services and SPOT Bus. (kcgov.us)

I can’t afford gas this week—who should I call: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “gas cards/bus passes” and Community Action “transportation assistance.” Try St. Vincent de Paul Help Line too; they list transportation among their supports. Use Idaho 2‑1‑1 and SVDP. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Can SNAP E&T or job programs pay for rides: Yes—Idaho’s E&T program uses “support vouchers,” and WIOA can fund transportation when needed for training. See DHW E&T and IDL WIOA. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

How much are Boise‑area bus fares: Local VRT single rides are 1.50(reduced1.50 (reduced 0.75), with day and monthly caps via Umo; children 5 and under ride free. See VRT Fares & Passes and How to Ride. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

What if I don’t have a smartphone: Call the dispatcher. GIFT (Idaho Falls) books by phone at 1‑208‑999‑4438; Ride TFT (Twin Falls) at 1‑208‑974‑7433; VRT customer service is 1‑208‑345‑7433. See GIFT scheduling and Ride TFT. (greateriftransit.com)

Can my child get a ride to school if we’re doubled‑up: Yes, under McKinney‑Vento your district must arrange transportation to the school of origin. Contact your liaison or the state coordinator via SDE Homeless Education. (sde.idaho.gov)

I’m a Veteran mom—do I get paid back for medical travel: Many Veterans and eligible caregivers qualify for VA Beneficiary Travel; submit claims within 30 days in BTSSS or the VA app. See VA Travel Pay and Mileage rate details. (va.gov)

Is there help for bike transportation: In Boise, the Boise Bicycle Project provides sliding‑scale kids’ bikes and community programs; most buses have bike racks. Check your local transit on ITD’s directory. (boisebicycleproject.org)

Where do I find one page with all transit providers: Use Idaho Transportation Department’s Public Transportation page and scroll to “Transit Providers”—it lists phone numbers by county and region. You can also call 2‑1‑1 CareLine for live help. (itd.idaho.gov)

Spanish Quick Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Confirme siempre los detalles por teléfono.

Primer paso: llame al 2‑1‑1 o 1‑800‑926‑2588 para pedir “ayuda de transporte hoy” (vales de gasolina, pases de autobús, transporte por motivos médicos o de seguridad). Vea Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine (en inglés) y el directorio estatal de transporte público. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Medicaid: para citas médicas, programe transporte con MTM al 1‑877‑503‑1261 (urgente 24/7). Información en MTM Idaho Members y DHW NEMT. (mtm-inc.net)

Transporte local: Boise‑área Valley Regional Transit (1‑208‑345‑7433), Idaho Falls GIFT (1‑208‑999‑4438), Coeur d’Alene Citylink (gratis). Para más opciones, use ITD Public Transportation. (valleyregionaltransit.org)

Trabajo y capacitación: pregunte por apoyo para transporte en SNAP E&T (MAXIMUS) y WIOA del Departamento de Labor. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026. We follow state and federal sources and update regularly, but programs change. For corrections, email info@asinglemother.org.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Disclaimer

Important: this is information, not legal advice or an eligibility decision. Benefits, fares, and hours change without notice based on funding, county, and program updates. Always confirm by phone before you travel. Use Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and ITD’s transit directory to double‑check current availability. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Tip: screenshot the “Quick Help Box,” “Quick Reference Cheat Sheet,” and the “Application Checklist” so you can pull them up quickly when you’re on the phone with a dispatcher or caseworker.

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