Taxi service finds niche serving elderly, disabled

Jeanne Herron has always had a passion for helping people who need medical care. Thirty years as a certified nursing assistant attest to that.

But about 10 months ago Herron found another way to help those in need of medical assistance — she started a taxi service.

Herron, her husband, Gary Herron Sr., and son Gary Jr. operate Drive4U Taxi Service, primarily serving the Flathead Valley. Their service also extends to Lincoln County.

She was inspired to start Drive4U after learning about a Canadian taxi service called Driving Miss Daily that offers door-to-door service for elderly and disabled people needing transportation.

“Medical [service] is my passion,” she said. “If I get two back-to-back calls and one is to bring someone for medical care and other to pick someone up at the bar, I’d take the medical over the bar call.”

Herron leased the taxi permit previously held by Lee Sturdevant of Kalispell, who operated a taxi service for about six months before calling it quits in mid-2010. Making a living at operating a taxi service in the Flathead has proven difficult for many, largely because of the relatively low population base.

Drive4U quickly expanded its service to include not only rides to and from doctors’ appointments but also the airport, Whitefish train depot and Whitefish Mountain Resort. The taxi service also serves the nighttime bar crowds.

There are three other state-issued taxi permits in the valley: Flathead-Glacier Transportation, Winter Sports Inc. and a newer permit held by Jim’s Taxi.

It’s a competitive business, Herron said, especially to transport tourists who are able to tip heavier than the elderly or disabled on a fixed income.

“That’s why no one fights over [the medical] services and they get neglected,” Herron said, explaining the responsibility she feels to serve those on limited incomes.

Drive4U has a fleet of four vehicles for the range of services the business offers. They include a Chevrolet HHR, a retro-styled station wagon; a Chevy Astro van with a wheelchair lift; a Subaru Forester with a luggage box on top; and a 14-passenger “party van” for larger groups.

In addition to the Herrons, Drive4U employs two drivers and expects to hire more as the business expands. Drivers undergo drug testing, Herron noted.

Operating a round-the-clock taxi service is a grueling business, she admitted. Even on her day off, the phone is close at hand.

“Our prices are lower, so that keeps us busy,” she said. “We are an honest, drug-free service that cares about the people more than the money.”

Drive4U can be reached by phone at 730-2879 or through its website, www.drive4u.org.

Features editor Lynnette Hintze may be reached at 758-4421 or by e-mail at lhintze@dailyinterlake.com.