Orange County Executive Neuhaus Announces Free Rides for Eligible Seniors with GoGoGrandparent

Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and the County's Office for the Aging are proud to announce the launch of GoGoGrandparent, a new ride service designed for eligible Orange County residents aged 60 and older. GoGoGrandparent makes transportation easy for seniors by allowing them to schedule or request on-demand rides with just a simple phone call. Through this program, eligible seniors can enjoy a limited number of free round-trip rides for essential appointments and community activities, helping them stay active, connected, and independent.

"Orange County is committed to investing in programs that make life easier and more fulfilling for our seniors," said Neuhaus. "GoGoGrandparent will provide safe, reliable rides that help older adults maintain their independence, stay connected to loved ones, and continue to be active members of our community."

The program is funded through the New York State Office for the Aging and provides a limited number of rides. Seniors must first register with the GoGo system, which can be done over the phone with a staff member from the Orange County Office for the Aging.

Once registered, they will receive all the information needed to move forward with scheduling rides.

"This is about giving our seniors more freedom, dignity, and peace of mind," said Danielle Diana Smith, Director of the Office for the Aging. "Transportation can often be a major challenge, and GoGoGrandparent offers a safe, simple solution to help older adults remain active and connected. Whether it's a ride to a critical and important medical appointment or a trip to the grocery store for necessary food and essentials, accessible transportation is important and vital to their well-being."

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 60 years or older
• Must live in Orange County
• Must have a cell phone
• Individuals who receive Medicaid Medical Transportation are not eligible

Where Can You Go with GoGoGrandparent?

• Non-emergency medical appointments (within Orange County)
• Visiting loved ones in hospitals or nursing homes
• Faith-based activities
• Community and social events
• Voting sites

Cost:

• The New York State Office for the Aging and the Orange County Office for the Aging will cover 100% of the cost for a limited number of round-trip rides.

"I am thrilled to have GoGoGrandparent up and running. As our senior population grows and people live longer, it's imperative we provide them with the tools and services they need to maintain their independence," said Orange County Legislator Janet Sutherland. "As always, it was a pleasure to work with County Executive Neuhaus and the Orange County Office of the Aging to bring GoGoGrandparent into fruition."

How to Get Started:
Call the Orange County Office for the Aging at 845-615-3710 to learn more and register.

For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or [email protected].

To stay informed about County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus' work and initiatives across Orange County, follow Orange County Government and Steven M. Neuhaus on social media:

• Facebook: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
• Instagram: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
• X (formerly Twitter): @OCGovNY | @SNeuhausOC

You can also watch NeuCast podcasts and the Leadership Speaker Series on the Orange County Government YouTube channel.