Transportation & Mobility
Our transportation navigation services are designed to help you understand and access available mobility options so that medical appointments, essential errands (e.g., grocery shopping), and social activities need not be missed due to lack of transportation. Navigators work in conjunction with a variety of programs operating across the Bay Area—including but not limited to paratransit, senior shuttle programs, volunteer driver initiatives, and reduced-fare transit. All navigation support is provided free of charge and in confidence.
Types of Transportation We Help With
Paratransit & ADA Services
Demand-responsive, door-to-door or curb-to-curb transportation for individuals who are unable to use fixed-route public transit as a result of a disability or health-related limitation, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Eligibility criteria and reservation procedures are determined at the county or transit-authority level and may differ. We assist with understanding eligibility and completing the enrollment process for:
- SF Paratransit — San Francisco (SFMTA)
- AC Transit ACCESS — Alameda and Contra Costa counties
- VTA Access — Santa Clara County
- SamTrans Redi-Wheels — San Mateo County
- Marin Access — Marin County
- Other county and regional paratransit programs
Senior Shuttles & Community Transit
Fixed-route or demand-response shuttle services targeting older adults, typically operated by municipal entities, senior centers, or nonprofit organizations. Availability and scheduling vary by jurisdiction. We assist with identifying and utilizing:
- City and county senior shuttles
- Medical appointment shuttles (e.g., to clinics and hospitals)
- Grocery and errand routes
- Senior center and activity trip programs
Volunteer Driver Programs
Transportation provided by trained volunteers to eligible seniors for purposes such as medical appointments and essential errands. Such programs may have their own eligibility and scheduling requirements. We can facilitate referral to:
- ITN (Independent Transportation Network) and similar programs
- Faith-based and community volunteer ride services
- Rideshare and escort options for medical visits
Discounted Transit & Information
Reduced fares and trip-planning tools so you can use buses, BART, light rail, and ferries with confidence:
- Clipper card — Senior discount and how to load and use it
- 511 — Bay Area trip planning, transit schedules, and paratransit info
- BART, Muni, AC Transit, VTA, SamTrans, and other agency senior fares
What We Offer
- One-on-one transportation navigation — We explain which programs you may qualify for and walk you through enrollment (applications, eligibility, booking).
- Ride-planning and scheduling support — Including escorted or companion trips for those with mobility, cognitive, or language barriers when available through partner programs.
- Mobility coaching — Support for fear or confusion about using buses, BART, or ride options. We can practice trip planning and explain how to book and use paratransit.
- Coordination with your providers — We work with clinics and senior centers so transportation is not a barrier to care or activities.
What to Expect
Upon initial contact (by phone or in person), our staff will gather information regarding your travel needs (destinations, frequency), as well as any mobility or language considerations. We will then explain which options may be applicable—including paratransit eligibility, shuttle availability, and volunteer programs—and assist with the enrollment or registration process as appropriate. There is no fee for our navigation assistance; however, the transportation programs to which we refer may have their own costs or eligibility requirements.
Need Transportation Help?
Contact us for a conversation about your situation. We'll help you find the right options and, if needed, walk you through enrollment step by step.
Get Help