Free Transportation to Medical Appointments and More
If you can't drive or your regular driver isn't available, the Friends Van is always at your service with free transportation to medical, dental, and other personal appointments. Completely supported by HSHS St. Joseph's Foundation, the Friends Van is free to riders, although donations are accepted. Medical appointments are a priority and includes visits to physicians, dentist offices, chiropractors, pharmacies and to HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital. Personal appointments need to be scheduled 2 days in advance. Medical appointments may be scheduled at anytime.

What cities does Friends Van serve?
The service area encompasses all towns within a 20-mile radius of Breese that have appointments in Breese only. The Friends Van will pick-up from:

• Albers
• Aviston
• Bartelso
• Beckemeyer
• Breese
• Carlyle
• Centralia
• Damiansville
• Germantown
• New Baden
• St. Rose
• Trenton

What hours does the Friends Van operate?
You can access the Friends Van's free services Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.

Who can use the Friends Van, and where does it go?
Anyone who needs transportation can use the Friends Van, whether you no longer drive, you're temporarily restricted by a medical condition, the family member who usually takes you isn't available or your vehicle is under service. Take the Friends Van to medical, pharmacy, and dental appointments - those are priority. The Friends Van will also take you home or to the nursing home when you're discharged from the hospital. Transportation for personal requests and appointments is also available including shopping, nursing home visits, and much more.

How do I schedule transportation with the Friends Van?
To make an appointment for the use of the Friends Van - whether it's for yourself or an elderly family member - please call (618) 651-2788.