Expansion of Healthy Rides Program Announced
Mayor Michelle Wu, Boston’s Age Strong Commission, the Biogen Foundation, the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts or ULEM (Boston, MA), and Lyft announced the expansion of Healthy Rides, a free transportation initiative for Boston’s older residents. Supported by a collaborative investment of $150,000, the expanded program builds on the success of the pilot to tackle social isolation, expand medical access, and improve the quality of life for older adults. Following the pilot’s success, the Biogen Foundation joined as a funding partner, contributing $50,000 toward program expansion. The City of Boston and Lyft each matched Biogen’s contribution, bringing the total investment to $150,000.
“Every elder in Boston should be able to easily visit friends and family, attend social gatherings, and get to medical appointments. The success of our initial pilot program shows how important it is to continue providing these services, removing barriers so older residents can live healthy, independent lives,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I am grateful to all of our partners for their leadership and support in ensuring that Boston remains a home for everyone.”
Healthy Rides was initially launched in November 2024 through a partnership between the City of Boston, ULEM, and Lyft. Over its four-month pilot period, the program provided over 1700 rides to more than 600 older adults, demonstrating strong demand and meaningful impact. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), social isolation and loneliness can severely impact an older adult’s health and well-being and are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline. Research shows that isolated older adults face longer hospital stays, have higher readmission rates, and have lower life expectancy than those with meaningful and supportive social connections. By expanding transit options for Boston’s older adults, the Healthy Rides initiative aims to reduce these exact risks and promote healthier aging.
Boston residents, age 60+ are eligible for up to 4 free rides per month (while funds are available) to health and wellness activities and destinations within Boston. Eligible trips include medical appointments, pharmacies, fitness/wellness classes, senior centers, social programs, and support groups.
“The Healthy Rides program mirrors the Urban League’s mission: helping adults to overcome racial and social barriers and economic inequities,” said Urban League of Eastern MA President/CEO Rashaan Hall. “This unique partnership allows needed transportation for our older residents to access necessary health and wellness services, fostering self reliance and independence.”
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