SSM Health is proud to contribute $5,000 to the Fond du Lac County United Way in support of its Ride United initiative – an essential program helping individuals overcome transportation barriers to access critical services.

Launched in 2018, Ride United connects people in need with reliable transportation to medical, dental, and mental health appointments, job interviews, school meetings, grocery stores, and pharmacies. The program is a partnership between United Ways and 211 services nationwide.

“This vital service recognizes the importance of transportation in helping individuals meet basic needs – from paying bills to feeding their families,” according to Amber Kilawee, Executive Director of Fond du Lac County United Way. “Everyone deserves safe, reliable access to food and essential items, regardless of their circumstances.”

Transportation challenges remain a significant barrier to care. According to the American Hospital Association, 3.6 million people in the U.S. miss out on medical care each year due to transportation issues.

“Transportation touches nearly every aspect of a person’s life,” says Tami Schattschneider, VP of patient care services and chief nursing officer at SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital. “When people can’t get to appointments, it leads to delayed care, higher costs, and poorer health outcomes. Removing these barriers is key to building healthier communities.”

For more information about Ride United, individuals can call 211.

In 2024, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac invested more than $568,000 through its community benefit ministry. This funding supports care for uninsured and underinsured patients, trains future health professionals, and addresses pressing health needs across the region.

To learn more about Ride United or to access transportation assistance, individuals can call 211. 

Tami Schattschneider (left), SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital VP patient care services/chief nursing officer, and Jeri Loewe (center), SSM Health senior continuous improvement manager, presents a $5,000 donation to Amber Kilawee, Fond du Lac County United Way executive director, to support the Ride United program.