Georgetown City Council voted to support Faith in Action Georgetown’s application for a $100,000-grant from Capital Metro using Federal Transit Administration funding to help expand its transportation services for seniors at its July 12 meeting.

In 2015 the nonprofit provided about 5,500 rides for seniors age 65 and older to a variety of destinations, including medical-related appointments and various errands, with volunteer drivers, FIAG Executive Director Vickie Orcutt said.

If approved, the funding could help the organization expand its hours from 9 a.m.-noon to 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Orcutt said.

According to the letter of support, FIAG’s goal is to support independence and provide access to healthcare and nutrition for seniors.

Transportation Analyst Nat Waggoner said FIAG’s expanded services could work alongside the city’s proposed fixed-route bus system, which will be discussed by the council at its meeting Aug. 9.

According to the city, the funding will also allow FIAG to participate in the Transit Working Group, which also includes the city of Georgetown, Georgetown Health Foundation and Capital Metro, and provide mobility management to coordinate, schedule and administer transportation services for FIAG’s more than 500 senior clients.

“I think this is exactly the sort of partnership the city ought to be doing,” City Council Member Steve Fought said.

Fought, who represents a portion of Sun City, had previously requested city staff work to find ways to support organizations in the community already providing transportation services to seniors during discussions about the proposed fixed-route bus system.

“This is exactly what seniors need. [FIAG] is also a proven success,” Fought said. “Thanks for what you do, and I believe this is a great program.”

The grant winners could be announced in September.

FIAG clients must be 65 years or older, live in Georgetown or its unincorporated area and be able to get in and out of a vehicle without assistance, Orcutt said.

The nonprofit is also seeking volunteers to drive, she said. Volunteers must pass a background check, provide two personal references and go through an interview process, she said.

For information about becoming a client or volunteering, visit www.faithinactiongt.org.