Accessing reliable transportation is crucial for seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life. In Erie County, New York, the Department of Senior Services, in partnership with community organizations, offers the Going Places Transportation Program to support older adults aged 60 and over. This curb-to-curb van service is specifically designed for seniors who find it challenging to use conventional transportation methods.
To arrange a ride, simply call (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433 between 8:30 am and 4:20 pm, Monday through Friday. When scheduling, it’s advisable to plan ahead: health-related trips can be booked two weeks in advance, while non-medical trips should be scheduled one week prior to your appointment. A brief registration is required to utilize this service, ensuring that the program effectively serves those in need of Senior Services Transportation.
The Going Places program prioritizes trips based on need, focusing on several key categories:
- Health Related (Non-Emergency): Transportation to essential medical appointments including doctor visits, clinics, hospitals, therapy sessions, counseling, and prescription pick-ups is prioritized to ensure seniors can access necessary healthcare.
- Food & Nutrition: The program facilitates trips to Stay Fit Dining Sites and grocery stores, supporting seniors in maintaining a healthy diet and accessing nutritious food options.
- Personal Business: Running personal errands such as banking, bill paying, accessing HEAP, Social Services, HIICAP (Health Insurance Information Counseling & Assistance Program), and legal assistance becomes easier with this transportation service.
- Social Activities: To combat social isolation and promote well-being, trips for social, recreational, and volunteer activities are also accommodated, enriching the lives of senior participants.
Due to the high demand for senior transportation services, travel may be limited to the closest available facilities, particularly for non-health related trips. However, exceptions are made for health-related appointments to ensure access to necessary medical care.
The program operates on a voluntary contribution basis. A suggested contribution of $8 for each one-way trip helps to sustain and expand the transportation program, but all contributions are voluntary and confidential. No senior will be denied service if they are unable to contribute, reinforcing the commitment to providing accessible senior services transportation to everyone in need.
Vans are allocated to serve specific communities within Erie County. To schedule your transportation, please contact the relevant number based on your location:
- City of Buffalo (service 8:30am – 3:15pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- City of Lackawanna (service 9:00am -4:00pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- City of Tonawanda (Mondays only 9-11am): (716) 505-1172
- Towns of Aurora and Elma (daily 8:30am – 4:30pm): (716) 652-8866
- Town of Cheektowaga (service 8:15am – 3:00pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- Towns of Clarence (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 9:00am – 3:00pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- Towns of Evans (no Thursdays, 8:00am – 3:00pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- Town of Lancaster (service 8:30am – 3:00pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- Town of Newstead (Tuesday, Friday, Saturday 8:30am – 3:00pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- Towns of Orchard Park & Boston (no Mondays, 9:00am – 3:15pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
- Town of West Seneca (service 9:15am – 3:30pm): (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433
Wheelchair-accessible van service is available upon request; please specify this need when you book your ride. For residents who may not be within the Going Places service areas, Erie County Senior Services/NY Connects can be reached at (716) 858-8526 to explore other available transportation options.
For those concerned about the driving safety of an aging loved one, resources like the AARP Driver Safety Program are available to provide guidance and support. Erie County is dedicated to ensuring seniors have access to essential services, including reliable and accessible transportation, fostering a community that supports aging in place.
