New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced an expansion of the state’s transportation partnership with GoGoGrandparent, a ride-and-delivery service aimed at providing no-cost rides for older adults. The initiative is managed by the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and local offices for the aging.
“Our unique and innovative transportation models will build on our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker — regardless of age or mobility — can live with independence, dignity, and connection,” Governor Hochul said. “By expanding our partnership with GoGoGrandparent, we are delivering real solutions that break down barriers, reduce isolation, and empower older adults to stay active in their communities.”
Each year, NYSOFA and its network of Area Agencies on Aging provide approximately 1.7 million rides to older residents. However, demand continues to exceed supply. The partnership with GoGoGrandparent was launched in 2022 and has since delivered more than 24,000 additional rides through local agencies. These services help address challenges faced by older adults who may struggle with transportation needs that can affect their independence and well-being.
New York State Office for the Aging Acting Director Greg Olsen commented on the program’s importance: “Increasing older adults’ access to transportation across the state is a great achievement and pivotal in helping to keep people in a community of their choice. This unique partnership with GoGoGrandparent has supported counties in their efforts to bridge local needs for transportation. I applaud Governor Hochul for her leadership in embracing creative solutions that are making a difference for families across New York State. This initiative is one of many efforts being championed by Governor Hochul to address public safety, affordability, and livability for individuals of all ages.”
GoGoGrandparent provides on-demand rides, deliveries, and care services tailored specifically for aging adults wishing to maintain independent living arrangements. As part of its collaboration with NYSOFA, 32 county-based offices now offer this service at no cost to qualifying residents aged 60 or above who register locally.
The program started as a pilot in three counties but now covers trips such as grocery shopping, medical visits—including dialysis appointments—and social activities throughout participating counties statewide. Most journeys are short-distance; the median trip length is under three miles.
Program costs are covered by funding from the New York State budget so that eligible seniors do not incur charges while funding remains available.
Demographic changes are contributing to increased demand for such services: By 2030 all Baby Boomers will be over age 65; Americans over age 65 are living longer than previous generations; meanwhile family sizes have decreased and relatives often live farther apart—factors reducing availability of unpaid caregiving support.
To ensure rider safety and accessibility needs are met—such as assistance with walkers or wheelchairs—GoGo works directly with local transport providers whose drivers must pass screening checks before participation.
State Senator Cordell Cleare stated: “As Chair of the Senate Aging Committee one of my chief priorities has been ensuring that every single Older New Yorker has the support they need to live their very best life. I am proud to support the expansion of this innovative transportation program which will ensure that our Seniors, especially in rural counties, can go to essential medical appointments and receive related services with confidence. I am elated to see we are putting our resources back into the State’s fastest growing population — our beloved Older New Yorkers.”
Assemblymember Rebecca Seawright said “Access to safe, reliable, and affordable transportation is a lifeline for older New Yorkers. This expanded partnership with GoGoGrandparent delivers a vital service—at no cost to older adults—allowing them to remain active in their communities and connected to essential services. I applaud Governor Hochul and NYSOFA for prioritizing equity and affordability as we work to support our rapidly growing aging population across New York State.”
Justin Boogaard, Co-founder & CEO of GoGoGrandparent added: “GoGoGrandparent was created to help aging adults continue to live independently — and safe, reliable transportation is a big part of that. We have heard from hundreds of our New York State riders that without GoGo, they would be housebound. We are honored to have the privilege of working with New York State on this important and impactful program.”
Association on Aging in New York Executive Director Becky Preve remarked: “Transportation is paramount for older adults, allowing access to medical appointments and social engagement across New York State. This partnership provides targeted and informed transportation options to older individuals, increasing independence and the ability to age in place. The Association on Aging in New York applauds this continued partnership with GoGoGrandparent and New York State.”
AARP’s Beth Finkel praised officials’ efforts: “AARP New York commends the New York State Office for the Aging and its local partners for expanding this innovative, no-cost transportation program for older adults. Transportation delivers more than a ride — it brings access, independence, and connection. By expanding mobility options, the state is breaking down barriers that often leave older adults isolated and unsupported… these services empower older New Yorkers to age in place…”
Stephen J Acquario from NYS Association of Counties highlighted how counties benefit from new tools like this partnership when building out capacity based on specific community requirements.
Beth Stranges from Chemung County Department emphasized how programs like these reach rural residents who might otherwise lack affordable transit choices: “Transportation can pose a significant barrier… Many older adults are on fixed incomes… This initiative offers a much-needed service without… additional costs…”
Currently participating counties include Albany, Allegany, Cayuga,Chemung among others.
