Transportation Assistance Resources in Massachusetts
Last updated September 11, 2026
Getting to medical appointments, job training, grocery stores, and essential services can be a serious barrier for Massachusetts residents who don't have reliable transportation. Whether you're a senior, a person with a disability, a low-income family, or someone navigating a health challenge, there are programs designed to help — and social workers and case managers can connect you to the right one.
Massachusetts operates several publicly funded transportation assistance programs through state agencies, regional transit authorities, and Medicaid managed care plans. Eligibility and available services vary depending on where you live, your income, your health needs, and your age. Calling 2-1-1 Massachusetts is often the fastest first step to finding out which local options are available in your specific city or county.
For older adults and people with disabilities, regional transit authorities across the state are required to offer paratransit services under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Additionally, MassHealth (Massachusetts Medicaid) provides non-emergency medical transportation for enrolled members who have no other way to get to covered medical services. Start with the programs below, and don't hesitate to ask a social worker to help you navigate the application process.
Key programs in Massachusetts
MassHealth Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
Covers rides to and from covered medical appointments — such as doctor visits, dialysis, and pharmacy trips — for MassHealth (Medicaid) members who have no other means of transportation.
How to access: Contact your MassHealth managed care plan directly, or call MassHealth Customer Service at 1-800-841-2900. Your plan coordinates the ride, so contact them at least a few days before your appointment when possible.
Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) — ADA Paratransit
All 15 of Massachusetts' Regional Transit Authorities are required by federal law to provide paratransit (door-to-door or curb-to-curb) service for people with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route buses or trains.
How to access: Find your local RTA through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) website or by calling 2-1-1. Contact your RTA directly to apply for ADA paratransit eligibility — you'll typically complete an application and may need documentation from a medical provider.
Eldercare Locator / Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
Area Agencies on Aging across Massachusetts often coordinate or fund volunteer driver programs, subsidized taxi rides, or escort services to help older adults get to medical appointments, senior centers, and daily errands.
How to access: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (free, nationwide) to be connected to your local AAA in Massachusetts. You can also find your AAA through the Executive Office of Elder Affairs at mass.gov/elder-affairs.
2-1-1 Massachusetts
A free, confidential helpline that connects Massachusetts residents to local transportation assistance programs, including volunteer driver networks, community shuttles, gas assistance, and other locally funded options that vary by region.
How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone, any time, 24 hours a day. You can also text your zip code to 898-211 or visit mass211.org. Specialists can search for transportation resources near you and help with referrals.
Veterans Transportation Services (VA)
The VA provides transportation assistance to eligible veterans for VA medical appointments, including the Beneficiary Travel program, which reimburses mileage or arranges rides, and volunteer driver services through the VA's Veterans Transportation Service network.
How to access: Contact your nearest VA medical center in Massachusetts (Boston, Bedford, Brockton, Leeds, or Togus/ME if near the border) and ask about Beneficiary Travel and transportation coordination. You can also visit va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay.
Transportation Assistance resources for Massachusetts
211 Transportation Assistance
NationwideReferrals to local transportation and medical-ride programs. Dial 211.
Eldercare Locator — Transportation
NationwideConnects older adults and caregivers to local transportation services.
Free Charity Cars
NationwideThe Original 1-800-Charity Cars, 800CharityCars.org (Charity Cars, Inc. DBA: Free Charity Cars), non-profit car-donation / distribution program in the nation. Struggling families nationwide apply for a free charity car. MUST REAPPLY EVERY 3 MONTHS!
GoGo Grandparent
NationwideConnects seniors and people with disabilities to essential services. With just one phone call, you can order rides, groceries, meals, prescriptions, and even home help—without needing a smartphone or app.
National Aging & Disability Transportation Center
NationwideTransportation options and assistance for older adults and people with disabilities.
Progressive’s Keys to Progress®
NationwideAnnual vehicle‑giveaway program that provides about 100 donated cars each November to U.S. veterans, their families, and veteran‑focused organizations, with over 1,200 vehicles gifted since 2013. A nationwide veteran‑support initiative run by Progressive Insurance.
Other resources in Massachusetts
- Housing Assistance in Massachusetts
- Food Assistance in Massachusetts
- Utility Assistance in Massachusetts
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Massachusetts
- Mental Health Resources in Massachusetts
- Domestic Violence Resources in Massachusetts
- Disability Resources in Massachusetts
- Veteran Resources in Massachusetts
- Child & Family Assistance in Massachusetts
- Senior Resources in Massachusetts