Access to Wellness: Breaking Down Barriers to Care
On September 17, 2025, GMTMA hosted the Access to Wellness event at the Robert Wood Johnson Wellness and Fitness Center, bringing together more than 70 case managers, social workers, and healthcare professionals from area non-profits and government– along with transportation experts, to explore ways to make wellness more accessible through reliable, affordable transportation.
The morning began with welcoming remarks from Diane Grillo of RWJ Barnabas Health, Mercer County Executive Dan Benson, and GMTMA Executive Director Cheryl Kastrenakes, who set the stage for a day focused on removing barriers to care. Attendees heard from a wide range of partners, including NJ TRANSIT’s Access Link, NJTIP@Rutgers, Go Trenton!, and GMTMA staff, who shared travel training resources, ride programs, and demonstrated its interactive mapping tools that help individuals connect with the services they need. NJ TRANSIT brought a bus onsite for a live bus demonstration which showed off the bus’s accessible features.
A highlight of the day came during the Q&A session, when attendees spoke openly about the barriers their patients and clients face. What made this so impactful was the way solutions were shared in real time, connecting challenges to resources and sparking collaboration.
The central theme of the event was clear: transportation is a lifeline to wellness. Whether it’s getting to the doctor, jobs, grocery stores, or community services, reliable rides and safe, accessible streets are essential for health and independence. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us and to our partners who are working every day to expand access to transportation. Together, we’re helping to build healthier communities.
Important Links:
Age-restricted Housing in Mercer County