Are you looking for ways to stay independent, healthy, and mobile on a low income? Getting affordable transportation is key for maintaining an active lifestyle.
Here are the top options for transportation assistance. It’s vital to stay connected and get around so you can enjoy life with your friends, family, and community. Some of these programs may be targeted to different demographics such as people with sight or mobility issues or seniors.
Be sure to keep track of the best programs in your area, so you can share your new finds with friends and family.
Let’s look at free or low-cost public transportation, faith-based and non-profit ride services, low-cost cars, ride programs, and transportation programs for specific demographics.
Are you looking for a free or low-cost way to get around? Public transportation can be a great option to keep you independent.
If you’re looking for transportation options, a lot depends on where you live. Most metropolitan areas have terrific public transportation. Cities such as New York and Chicago make it easy for individuals on a fixed income or of a certain age to get around and stay active. The transit in Chicago allows seniors to ride public transportation free of charge.
The best way to find options in your city or town is to check with local transit authorities. You may be able to qualify for free or low-cost transportation on buses, trains, and ferries.
Many organizations are committed to providing transportation to low-income individuals and seniors. In many communities, charitable organizations and religious groups offer volunteer-ride services.
Rides vary depending on the community and the organization. In some communities, services are only available with reservations. Check for details to find programs in your area.
If you’re a low-income American driver, you may be able to find free or low-cost care with one of the many programs.
As there are unique requirements, be sure to check each program to see if it matches your specific situation.
This is a nationwide program that provides cars to low-income families.
This website may have information that helps you get a car and stay mobile.
This site is also known as C4C, is a nationwide non-profit primarily operating in the Midwest. They help provide cars for people who are going through life hardships and need a vehicle.
If you are a veteran or know of a veteran in need of assistance, check out their partner organization. It is called C4Heroes and is devoted to providing cars to first responders and their families, and veterans in need of transportation.
This New England non-profit has transportation providing cars to families. It has given over 4,400 cars to families in need.
Low-Cost Car Programs are available for needy families in certain states.
Change serves families in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, and Michigan. Vehicles are donated by the public, refurbished, and made available through programs run by social services.
Goodwill Industrie operates a low-cost car program for qualified San Antonio residents, enabling individuals to purchase affordable cars.
Most communities offer low-cost transportation to seniors. Check out the offerings on your public transit. In addition, you may find offer para-transit services and door-to-door ride programs that can help you or your loved ones stay independent and mobile.
Seniors can find some of the best resources via each county’s Area Agency on Aging. You’ll find an active listing of transportation programs.
Also, check with the ElderCareLocator for local transportation programs, searchable by zip code. This is a great place to start finding transportation programs in your community.
This service offers a unique option called, ‘door-through-door’ transportation. Seniors who need assistance getting in and out of the car, and through the door to their home/destination will find this very helpful.
This is a great resource for helping seniors travel with dignity. Check your local office for more information, as the services are available only in certain states and regions.
This is a popular ride service that can have you in a ride within minutes.
Download the Lyft app, or have a friend, family member, or caregiver set it up for you. You can use the smartphone app to book a ride and pay automatically by credit card. If you don’t want to use a smartphone, use a concierge service to book a ride from your phone.
Do you need non-emergency transportation to your medical appointments? Do you need a special vehicle to transport your wheelchair? If so, Veyo is an ideal solution. Ask your insurance company if this is covered as part of your insurance benefits.
Rides are arranged through a health organization partner – check to see if this is part of your provider’s service.
This site assists in finding transportation options for seniors, and visually challenged persons. Specific needs are considered such as visual issues, age, mobility, wheelchair needs, and how far one is traveling. You can search online or call 1-855-607-4337, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM—8.00 PM ET.
The National Volunteer Transportation Center works with national organizations that offer volunteer driver programs. Check out the options that are available in your locale.
Finding the best transportation options is part of staying active, engaged, and independent. With the right transportation assistance, you can participate in your local community and enjoy your active lifestyle.
If you’re driving, check out the many programs to find a free or low-cost car. If you’re driving less or not driving, check out all the ways you can continue to keep mobile.
It’s good to know that a lot of organizations are dedicated to helping low-income Americans find ways to get transportation assistance for a full and rewarding lifestyle.
