Richard Davies
Oct 14, 2025
Ribbon Cutting on FRI 10/17 (11:30am). At Branford VinFast IVCG launches use of an electric vehicle for the RIDES+ senior transportation program.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 14, 2025
IVCG Deepens Care for Local Seniors with VinFast EV Collaboration
Branford, CT — Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers (IVCG) is proud to announce a major step forward in sustainable senior transportation with the addition of a VinFast VF8 electric vehicle to enhance its RIDES+ member program. This initiative reflects IVCG’s commitment to providing safe, reliable, and dignified rides for older adults across south central Connecticut.
Transportation remains one of the greatest obstacles to making visits to medical appointments, especially for seniors. Reduced public funding and a growing senior population have intensified the need for accessible, personalized transportation.
The community is invited to celebrate the official launch of the EV-enhanced RIDES+ member rides program on Friday, October 17th at 11:30 AM, at Premier VinFast, located at 150 North Main Street, Branford, CT. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, opportunities to meet IVCG volunteers and staff, and a close-up look at the new electric vehicle alongside RIDES+ members and the local team that delivers compassionate ride support to seniors in need.
“Adding an electric vehicle to our fleet is more than a transportation upgrade—it’s a statement about our values,” said Dan Camenga, Executive Director of IVCG. “Thanks to designated donations in support of this vehicle, we’re investing in clean transportation that elevates dignity, comfort, and the overall experience for our RIDES+ senior neighbors.”
“The Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven is proud to support IVCG’s continued dedication to helping seniors stay independent and connected,” said Lisa Stanger, Executive Director of the Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven. “This new electric vehicle strengthens a lifeline for older adults who rely on safe, compassionate rides to essential appointments. The Jewish Foundation's sponsorship of the RIDES+ program highlights our shared commitment to dignity, care, and community.”
The VinFast VF8 offers a quiet, smooth ride with advanced safety features, generously sized doors, and an ideal step height—making it especially well-suited for senior passengers. This launch marks the beginning of a broader effort to strengthen the resilience of IVCG’s transportation services while reducing its carbon footprint.
VinFast, a Vietnamese electric vehicle startup, officially entered the U.S. market in late 2022 and has since made bold investments, including a planned $4 billion EV manufacturing facility in North Carolina. With sleek Italian-inspired design and competitive pricing, the VF8 is one of the newest EVs available in the U.S., and few people have had the chance to see it up close. [motorweek.org], [frost.com]
IVCG gratefully acknowledges the organizational RIDES+ charter members, including:
Event Details:
📅 Date: Friday, October 17, 2025
🕒 Time: 11:30 AM
📍 Location: Premier VinFast, 150 North Main Street, Branford, CT
🎉 Activities: Ribbon cutting, vehicle showcase, refreshments, and community engagement
For more information, visit https://www.carenewhaven.org/ or contact Dan Camenga by email at: Director@CareNewHaven.org.