No-Cost Senior Transportation Program

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic caused many transportation services that older adults rely on to maintain their independence to increase in cost or halt completely. Additionally, many older adults became increasingly isolated and disengaged from their communities. Recovery funding opportunities emerged, and the County of San Diego (County) Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services (AIS) identified transportation access for older adults as an immense regional need. As a result, AIS launched the No-Cost Senior Transportation Program in partnership with Jewish Family Service of San Diego and funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to provide free, on-demand transportation for low-income individuals 60 years of age and older residing in San Diego County Health Equity zip codes with limited access to public transportation. This program provides over 110 eligible older adults with 80 miles of free transportation monthly for 2 years and offers a tailored level of service to support mobility independence for all abilities with curb-to-curb and door-to-door service and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles. Through this program, the County is offering older adults access to medical appointments, the ability to perform errands, and the opportunity to be socially engaged within their communities without the burdens of cost and accessibility.