What does it take to make healthcare truly accessible in a community? In Bastrop County, it starts with listening, and then taking action.
For years, Bastrop County Cares (BCC) has been turning community concerns into real solutions, from tackling transportation barriers for seniors to launching volunteer-driven rides and expanding programs that help families navigate the healthcare system. What began as a focus on transportation challenges has grown into a full-scale effort to ensure no one in Bastrop County is left behind when it comes to health care.
Listening First, Acting Next: At the heart of BCC’s approach is a simple idea: listen first, act second. By paying attention to what residents say and observing their challenges, the organization identifies real obstacles, like getting around the county for medical appointments, that might otherwise go unnoticed. Then BCC acts. No waiting, no assumptions. Every initiative starts with the community and is shaped by their needs. This approach ensures that solutions are practical, meaningful, and sustainable.
Collaboration That Gets Results: To make change happen, BCC knows that collaboration is key. With support from Methodist Healthcare Ministries, they launched the Health Collaborative, a coalition of agencies, nonprofits, and community members. Together, they work on strategies that make a real difference.
Some of the results so far:
- Educating the community about CARTS transportation services
- Signing MOUs with local agencies to expand access
- Distributing over 1,250 CARTS passes to people across the county
This work wouldn’t be possible without a dedicated team of coordinators, change agents, and volunteers, all committed to improving health access. And the work continues: partnerships with Chariot/Drive A Senior are expanding transportation options even further.
CARE Rides: Small Acts, Big Impact: One of BCC’s most visible and inspiring programs is CARE Rides, a volunteer-driven initiative providing seniors with rides to appointments. Since launching, CARE Rides has provided over 60 rides, helping seniors get where they need to go safely and reliably. Volunteers like Lula Reese, Barbara Clemons, Tobie Mitchell, Alma Deshay, and Cyndy Lee demonstrate how small acts of service create meaningful change in the community.
Supporting Families Every Step of the Way: BCC’s Community Health Worker & Postpartum Doula Program continues to grow, helping families access healthcare, enroll in benefits, and connect with vital resources.These workers and doulas bring both professional training and lived experience, putting neighbors first, professionals second, and advocates always. They are the heart of BCC’s mission in action.
Looking Ahead: Change doesn’t happen overnight, but in Bastrop County, it’s happening because BCC listens, collaborates, and shows up. Programs like CARE Rides, the Health Collaborative, and the CHW & Doula Program are not just solutions, they’re a model for how community-driven health access can work. With dedication, collaboration, and a focus on real needs, Bastrop County Cares is building a healthier, more connected community for everyone.
