Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Missouri

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you fast, direct ways to get rides for work, medical visits, school, and daily life in Missouri. It links you to real programs, phone numbers, and offices you can use today. Every section ends with a Plan B so you’re not stuck.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call MTM Health to book a free Medicaid ride if you have MO HealthNet: dial 1-866-269-5927 and ask for urgent same‑day NEMT if your doctor says you must be seen today; you can also use the MTM Link app to check status and file a “Where’s My Ride?” at 1-866-269-5944, and call the MO HealthNet help line if you need benefit info at 1-800-392-2161. MTM Health Missouri MTM Link app DSS MO HealthNet numbers (mtm-inc.net)
• Get a same‑day ride in Kansas City using zero‑fare fixed‑route buses and on‑demand paratransit if eligible: contact the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660, download the Transit app for trip plans, and use Freedom On‑Demand at 816-842-9070 if you are ADA‑certified. RideKC Mobility Services RideKC Transit app page RideKC Freedom On‑Demand (ridekc.org)
• Use the statewide MO Rides directory to find a ride in your county within minutes: call 1-844-836-7433 to talk to a mobility coordinator, search providers by county, and ask about wheelchair access or volunteer drivers. MO Rides search MO Rides contact About MO Rides (morides.org)

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• Metro St. Louis ADA rides and reservations: 314-652-3617 for Call‑A‑Ride reservations, 314-982-1505 for questions, and MetroGo! tools for booking and tracking. Metro Call‑A‑Ride reservations Metro Call‑A‑Ride main MetroGo! (metrostlouis.org)
• United Way 211 for local gas cards, bus passes, or volunteer rides near you: dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑427‑4626 and ask for transportation help. United Way 211 Missouri 211 resource directory KY3: 211 day info (unitedwaycemo.org)
• OATS Transit for rural rides statewide: call 1‑888‑875‑6287 or your regional office for schedules and fares. OATS Transit home OATS contact Example county fares (oatstransit.org)
• Missouri Job Centers for bus passes, gas cards, and WIOA supportive services while job‑seeking: find your local center and ask about transportation support. Find a Missouri Job Center Hiring events page State Workforce Board info (jobs.mo.gov)
• Driver license reinstatement and hardship license help: check your status, pay fees online, or apply for Limited Driving Privilege. Reinstatement requirements Limited Driving Privilege (LDP) Mandatory insurance penalties (dor.mo.gov)

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How to Get Medical Rides Through MO HealthNet (Medicaid)

If you have MO HealthNet and no safe way to get to care, book a free Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) ride. Call 1‑866‑269‑5927 to schedule, or use the MTM Link app; for urgent care where the doctor must see you today, you can call 24/7 and request an urgent ride. MTM Health Missouri NEMT MTM Link portal/app Medical facilities info for scheduling windows (mtm-inc.net)

• Eligibility rules: You must be eligible for MO HealthNet on the day of travel, have a covered visit, and lack free, appropriate transportation; MTM assigns the least costly safe mode (bus, sedan, wheelchair van, mileage reimbursement, or stretcher/ambulance if medically needed). NEMT rider details MTM Missouri overview DSS MO HealthNet numbers (mtm-inc.net)
• How to apply: Call 1‑866‑269‑5927 weekdays 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; schedule at least 2 days ahead if you live in an urban county, or 3 days in basic/rural counties; urgent trips can be set up any time; if the driver is late, call 1‑866‑269‑5944. Schedule and “Where’s My Ride” Provider scheduling window MTM Missouri (mtm-inc.net)
• Required documents: Have your MO HealthNet ID, your pick‑up address, appointment time and address, doctor name, and special needs; ask your clinic to fax a note if you must go outside the local area. Participant instructions Medical facilities guide MTM Link app (mtm-inc.net)
• Timelines: Expect routine trips approved during business hours; for a return ride you did not schedule, MTM targets pick‑up within one hour; be ready 15 minutes before your pick‑up window. Rider expectations Medical facilities Q&A MTM Missouri (mtm-inc.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call MO HealthNet Constituent Services at 1‑800‑392‑2161 to report chronic delays, ask your clinic to mark your visit “urgent,” and request mileage reimbursement if a friend can drive you; if denied, appeal in writing and ask for a supervisor call‑back. DSS MO HealthNet numbers Participant guidance Medical facilities scheduling (dss.mo.gov)

Rides to Work, School, and Child Care

Start with low‑ or no‑cost public transit where available, then layer in job program supports for gas, passes, or car repair when you’re placed in training or work.

• Kansas City region: Fixed‑route buses are currently zero‑fare, and paratransit and on‑demand services operate with published fares; use the Transit app, the Regional Call Center at 816‑221‑0660, and Freedom On‑Demand at 816‑842‑9070 if ADA‑certified. RideKC zero‑fare note and Mobility updates Transit app info Freedom On‑Demand details (ridekc.org)
• St. Louis region: Use MetroBus/MetroLink and ADA Call‑A‑Ride; reservations lines are answered daily 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., and a three‑day booking window applies for ADA trips; download MetroGo! to manage trips. Call‑A‑Ride reservations Reservation window update Call‑A‑Ride page (metrostlouis.org)
• Columbia/Boone County: GoCOMO is fare‑free as of August 2025; plan trips in Google Maps and track buses with ETA SPOT; call 573‑874‑2489 for route help. City update — fare‑free GoCOMO GoCOMO contact page ETA SPOT app note (como.gov)
• Springfield (CU Transit “The Bus”): Adult single‑ride fares are $1.00 with passes available; use Token Transit or a Smart Card to pay; call 417‑831‑8782 for support. Official CU Transit fares CU Transit overview 211 listing for CU Transit (cutransit.net)
• St. Joseph: “The Ride” has low fares and route deviations you can book by phone; monthly passes keep costs down. Fares page Deviation/curb service Travel training contacts (stjosephmo.gov)
• Joplin: Sunshine Lamp Trolley relaunched in Feb 2025 at $2 per ride; MAPS curb‑to‑curb runs weekdays for work and errands; call 417‑626‑8607. City public transportation Transit relaunch details MPTA announcement (joplinmo.org)
• Southeast Missouri (Cape Girardeau): The county transit authority runs fixed buses and demand response; seniors 60+ ride free in‑county on taxis; call 573‑335‑5533. CGCTA buses CGCTA taxi/demand response CGCTA main (cgcta.com)

Pair transit with job supports:

• Missouri Job Centers can offer supportive services like bus passes or gas cards when you enroll in WIOA training or get placed; contact your nearest center and ask for “supportive services for transportation.” Find a Missouri Job Center State workforce board page Hiring events and MoJobs (jobs.mo.gov)
• Missouri Work Assistance (for Temporary Assistance/TANF) can help with bus passes and emergency car repairs while you do required work activities; ask your MWA office about “support services.” MWA office finder TA supportive services reference (IM‑1TALF) DSS main site (dss.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for local “transportation assistance” funds; check OATS or SMTS in rural counties; and ask your child’s school McKinney‑Vento liaison for transportation if you’re doubled‑up or homeless. United Way 2‑1‑1 OATS main DESE homeless program info (unitedwaycemo.org)

Quick Program Overview (at a glance)

Car Repair, Car Purchase, and Gas Help

• Community Action Agencies (CSBG funds) sometimes cover work‑related car repairs, small gas cards, or bus passes; find your local CAA and ask about employment transportation. DSS CSBG overview MO Rides county searches United Way 2‑1‑1 (dss.mo.gov)
• Love Columbia (Boone County) offers car‑repair help, matching funds for car savings, donated vehicles for engaged clients, and transportation coaching; call 573‑256‑7662 during intake hours. Love Columbia transportation Barrier: transportation hub Love Columbia basic needs (lovecolumbia.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul — St. Louis funds transportation help through car donation revenue and can assist with car repairs, purchases, or low‑interest loans as funds allow; contact your local parish conference via 2‑1‑1. SVDP vehicle donations (funds transportation) SVDP transportation program SVDP get help (svdpstlouis.org)
• Job programs: When you enroll with a Missouri Job Center or MWA, ask for “supportive services” for transportation tied to job search, training, or a new job. Job Centers SWDB/WIOA overview MyDSS programs overview (jobs.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use MO Rides to locate small volunteer driver programs, ask local churches about one‑time gas or repair help through their benevolence funds, and request short‑term transit passes from your workforce case manager. MO Rides list United Way 2‑1‑1 JobsMoGov Job Centers (morides.org)

“How Do I…?” — Fast, Step‑By‑Step Answers

How to get a ride to a prenatal or pediatric visit this week in Missouri

• Call 1‑866‑269‑5927 and say you need an urgent NEMT ride; if the driver is late, use 1‑866‑269‑5944; ask your clinic to fax a note if distance is an issue. MTM rider guide Medical scheduling windows DSS MO HealthNet (mtm-inc.net)
• In Kansas City, plan a same‑day zero‑fare bus route and back‑up ride using Freedom On‑Demand if you are ADA‑certified; allow extra time for waits. Mobility wait‑times note Freedom On‑Demand Transit app (ridekc.org)
• In St. Louis, book Metro Call‑A‑Ride up to 3 days ahead, and use MetroGo! for status; ask about non‑ADA travel if you’re not eligible. Accessibility guide and phones Reservation window update Call‑A‑Ride page (metrostlouis.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic’s social worker to submit the ride request; call United Way 2‑1‑1 for volunteer rides; and, if you’re a Veteran spouse using VA care, ask the clinic about BTSSS reimbursement rules for eligible trips. United Way 2‑1‑1 VA travel pay info BTSSS overview (unitedwaycemo.org)

How to get a hardship license (Limited Driving Privilege) after a suspension

• Check your reinstatement requirements and unpaid fees; pay online if possible; then review Limited Driving Privilege rules to see if you qualify. Reinstatement requirements LDP program Mandatory insurance penalties (dor.mo.gov)
• If you qualify, submit the LDP application to the Department of Revenue, and carry SR‑22 insurance and an ignition interlock if required. LDP details DOR reinstatement portal Insurance SR‑22 notes (dor.mo.gov)
• If your case is complex, call Legal Aid to see if a free attorney can help with court orders or payment plans. Legal Aid of Western Missouri Mid‑Missouri Legal Services United Way 2‑1‑1 legal referrals (lawmo.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the court about a payment plan, keep proof of insurance at all times, and request a WIOA supportive‑services gas card for job interviews while your license is limited. Reinstatement info JobsMoGov centers SWDB/WIOA overview (dor.mo.gov)

Local and Regional Transportation Resources (with contacts)

Community, Charity, and Church Programs

• United Way 2‑1‑1 can route you to caseworkers who provide gas cards, bus passes, or volunteer drivers when funds exist; ask about transportation, car repair, and benevolence funds. 211 Helpline overview Heart of Missouri 211 info United Way KC 211 basics (unitedwaycemo.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (St. Louis) manages a transportation fund backed by vehicle donations; requests go through your local parish conference or 2‑1‑1. SVDP transportation SVDP donate a vehicle SVDP get help (svdpstlouis.org)
• Love Columbia runs car‑repair support, matching funds for car purchase, and donated vehicle placements for engaged participants; ask about transportation coaching. Transportation assistance Barrier: transportation Basic needs hub (lovecolumbia.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker to check Community Services Block Grant funds for car repair, search MO Rides for volunteer driver groups, and call nearby parishes for SVDP conference contacts. DSS CSBG MO Rides search SVDP contact (dss.mo.gov)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use inclusive transit and workforce supports and ask for name updates on reduced‑fare IDs; RideKC and Metro Call‑A‑Ride follow ADA and civil rights policies and can provide travel training; Job Centers also provide supportive services regardless of gender identity. RideKC rider guide Metro Accessibility guide JobsMoGov centers (ridekc.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for ADA paratransit (Call‑A‑Ride in St. Louis; Freedom or Freedom On‑Demand in KC); in rural areas, use OATS or SMTS; request travel training in St. Joseph if fixed‑route is new to you. Metro Call‑A‑Ride RideKC Freedom OATS Transit (metrostlouis.org)
• Veteran single mothers: File for VA mileage or special‑mode travel reimbursement (BTSSS) after medical appointments to get gas and tolls repaid fast; submit online for 3–5‑day payments. How to file VA travel VA News on BTSSS speed AccessVA BTSSS info (va.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: In St. Louis and Kansas City, refugee agencies can help with transit orientation and volunteer rides during appointments; ask your resettlement worker for bus training and travel support. International Institute of St. Louis (Welcome Corps) Della Lamb Refugee Services (KC) Della Lamb “Stand with Refugees” transit help (iistl.org)
• Tribal members and Native families: Use VA travel benefits if you’re a Veteran, and ask local clinics if they can arrange transport or reimburse mileage for specialty visits; also check MO Rides for providers serving reservations’ service areas near Missouri’s borders. VA travel pay MO Rides search BTSSS how‑to (va.gov)
• Rural single moms: Book OATS or SMTS early, and ask your Missouri Job Center about gas cards tied to interviews or first weeks of work; keep a standing ride if you have the same shift. OATS Transit MO Rides counties JobsMoGov centers (oatstransit.org)
• Single fathers: The same programs apply to dads caring for kids; call 2‑1‑1 for local funds, and use workforce supportive services for transportation. United Way 2‑1‑1 JobsMoGov centers MO Rides (unitedwaycemo.org)
• Language access and accessibility: Ask for interpreter services when booking NEMT, request TTY/Relay (711) for OATS and transit calls, and look for translated forms at your clinic. MTM language/auxiliary aids OATS relay notice DSS toll‑free numbers (TTY listed) (mtm-inc.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a caseworker to submit an accommodation request in writing, request large‑print materials, and call 711 for Relay when booking rides. MTM contact & aids OATS relay DSS numbers (mtm-inc.net)

Resources by Region — Where to Look First

• St. Louis metro: Start with Metro Transit for daily trips, United Way 2‑1‑1 for one‑time help, and SVDP for car repair or purchase support. Metro Call‑A‑Ride United Way 2‑1‑1 SVDP transportation (metrostlouis.org)
• Kansas City area: Use zero‑fare RideKC for work and school, add Freedom On‑Demand for door‑to‑door if ADA‑certified, and register for Guaranteed Ride Home through RideshareKC for emergencies. RideKC mobility update Freedom On‑Demand Guaranteed Ride Home (RideshareKC) (ridekc.org)
• Columbia/Boone County: Ride fare‑free on GoCOMO, use Love Columbia for car‑related help, and work with the Columbia Job Center for supportive services. GoCOMO update Love Columbia transportation Columbia Job Center (como.gov)
• Springfield/Greene County: CU Transit fares are budget‑friendly, and the Job Center can help with passes during training. CU Transit fares Springfield Job Center 211 Springfield resource (cutransit.net)
• Southeast (Cape/Bootheel): Use CGCTA for fixed or demand rides, and ask about senior free rides on in‑county taxis; check MO Rides for SMTS options across the region. CGCTA buses CGCTA taxi/demand response SMTS listing on MO Rides (cgcta.com)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying too late: For MTM NEMT, routine rides need 2 days (urban) or 3 days (rural); waiting until the day before can lead to denial. MTM participant page Medical facility guide MTM Missouri (mtm-inc.net)
• Not asking for supportive services: Job Centers and MWA often have small funds for transit; staff won’t know you need it unless you ask. Job Centers SWDB/WIOA MWA offices (jobs.mo.gov)
• Skipping SR‑22 after a suspension: Missing proof of insurance keeps you off the road and delays any LDP or reinstatement. DOR SR‑22 rules Reinstatement steps LDP FAQ (dor.mo.gov)

Reality Check — Funding, Wait Times, and Driver Shortages

• Paratransit waits: RideKC Freedom and On‑Demand report longer waits during peak times; plan a fixed‑route back‑up when you can. RideKC wait‑times note Transit app info Employer commute supports (ridekc.org)
• Driver shortages: Some rural routes or city services adjust schedules or suspend lines; check service alerts before you head out. OATS service updates Joplin trolley relaunch Metro Call‑A‑Ride updates (oatstransit.org)
• Limited charity funds: Gas cards and car repair grants come and go; call to confirm funding today before you count on it. United Way 2‑1‑1 CSBG overview SVDP assistance (unitedwaycemo.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

• Photo ID: driver’s license or state ID; if none, bring any official mail and ask the office how to proceed. DOR reinstatement page Jobs Center finder United Way 2‑1‑1 (dor.mo.gov)
• MO HealthNet card: for NEMT rides; if lost, call DSS or check your online account. DSS MO HealthNet numbers MTM participants MTM Link app (dss.mo.gov)
• Appointment details: clinic name, address, time, phone; ask clinic to fax notes if out of area. Medical facilities guide MTM participants MTM Missouri (mtm-inc.net)
• Income or enrollment proof: for Job Center supportive services or MWA; bring pay stubs or benefit letters. Job Centers MWA offices SWDB/WIOA info (jobs.mo.gov)
• Vehicle documents: for car repair programs—title, registration, proof of insurance, and a simple estimate. SVDP transportation CSBG overview Love Columbia transportation (svdpstlouis.org)

If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask why in writing: request the denial reason and the rule or policy used; write down names and dates. DSS main Jobs Center finder United Way 2‑1‑1 (dss.mo.gov)
• Appeal or reapply: for NEMT, ask MTM for a supervisor review; for Job Center supports, ask the manager about “supportive services exceptions.” MTM contact MTM “We Care” line Jobs Center finder (mtm-inc.net)
• Plan B: call 2‑1‑1 for one‑time help, check MO Rides for volunteer rides, and ask your faith community for a benevolence referral. United Way 2‑1‑1 MO Rides search Share the Ride STL RideFinders vanpools (unitedwaycemo.org)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

Tables — Transit and Support Programs You’ll Use Most

Transit Agencies, Phones, and Core Perks

Medical Travel and Reimbursement

Job and Training Support

Rural Options

Legal and Licensing

FAQs — Missouri Transportation Help

1. How fast can I get a Medicaid ride in a true urgent case: If your provider says you must be seen today, MTM can set up urgent trips 24/7; call 1‑866‑269‑5927 and explain the urgency. MTM urgent trips Medical facilities Q&A MTM Missouri (mtm-inc.net)
2. Does Kansas City transit still charge fares: Fixed‑route RideKC is currently zero‑fare, but paratransit and on‑demand have fares; check the site for updates. RideKC mobility update Freedom On‑Demand Transit app page (ridekc.org)
3. Is public transit free in Columbia: Yes; GoCOMO is fare‑free as of August 2025—plan routes in Google Maps and track buses with ETA SPOT. City update GoCOMO contact City source page (como.gov)
4. Can I get a gas card for job interviews: Possibly; ask your Missouri Job Center about WIOA supportive services, and MWA if you receive TANF. Job Centers SWDB/WIOA MWA offices (jobs.mo.gov)
5. What if my ride is late: MTM’s “Where’s My Ride?” line is 1‑866‑269‑5944; in KC, track vehicles in the Transit app; in St. Louis, use MetroGo! or call Call‑A‑Ride. MTM late ride line Transit app Call‑A‑Ride contacts (mtm-inc.net)
6. Who do I call for rural rides: Start with OATS at 1‑888‑875‑6287, then use MO Rides to check other providers in your county. OATS contact OATS home MO Rides search (oatstransit.org)
7. Can schools help with rides if I’m homeless: Yes; ask your district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison about transportation to your child’s school of origin. DESE homeless guidance United Way 2‑1‑1 MO Rides (dese.mo.gov)
8. How do Veterans get paid back for travel: File claims in the BTSSS portal; electronic claims usually pay in a few days with direct deposit. VA travel pay BTSSS overview AccessVA login (va.gov)
9. I lost my license—can I still drive to work: If you qualify, apply for a Limited Driving Privilege; you’ll likely need SR‑22 and sometimes an ignition interlock. LDP page Reinstatement steps Insurance penalties (dor.mo.gov)
10. Where can I get help learning the bus: Ask for travel training—St. Joseph has Travel Ambassadors; RideKC and Metro staff can walk you through planning and transfers. St. Joseph travel training RideKC rider resources Metro accessibility guide (stjosephmo.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Este resumen fue producido con herramientas de traducción por IA. Verifique siempre la información con los enlaces oficiales del estado. Para viajes médicos con Medicaid (MO HealthNet), llame al 1‑866‑269‑5927 para reservar transporte NEMT con MTM. MTM Missouri MTM Link DSS Teléfonos (mtm-inc.net)

En Kansas City, los autobuses RideKC de ruta fija no cobran pasaje ahora; para paratransit use RideKC Freedom; el centro de llamadas es 816‑221‑0660. RideKC info Freedom On‑Demand App Transit (ridekc.org)

En áreas rurales, llame a OATS Transit al 1‑888‑875‑6287 o busque opciones en su condado con MO Rides. OATS MO Rides OATS Contacto (oatstransit.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Missouri Department of Social Services (MO HealthNet & MWA)
• MTM Health — MO HealthNet NEMT
• Missouri Department of Revenue (Driver Licensing)
• Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (Job Centers)
• RideKC (KCATA)
• Metro Transit — St. Louis
• OATS Transit
• City of Columbia — GoCOMO
• City Utilities Transit — Springfield
• VA — Travel Pay (BTSSS)

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April January 2026.

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. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only. Program rules and funding change. Always confirm current details with the agency links and phone numbers provided before making decisions about work, childcare, medical care, or driving.

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🏛️More Missouri Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Missouri

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery