Putnam County to extend GoGo transportation service for seniors using unmet‑needs funds

Putnam County Office for Senior Resources staff briefed the Health, Social, Educational, Environmental Committee on the county’s GoGo transportation program and said they will use available unmet‑needs funds to sustain service once state grant money is exhausted. Staff introduced Edward Benes, the new fiscal manager, and described program details: eligible riders (primarily low‑income seniors) receive up to two one‑way rides per month of up to 20 miles at little or no cost; veterans traveling to VA clinics receive fully subsidized trips; typical rider copays above the county limit have averaged under $10, staff said.

The program uses a mix of vendors (ride‑hail services and taxis) depending on geography and has an enrollment process: county staff enroll eligible clients, who may then book trips by phone or app; caregivers can add funds or book trips on behalf of clients. Presenters said initial state funding ($20,000) was used quickly and a second $18,000 allotment followed; remaining costs will be covered temporarily from unmet‑needs funds to keep the program operating. Staff described the service as popular and noted it supports medical appointments, grocery trips, family visits and social outings.

Committee members and legislators asked how enrollment and caregiver access work, whether family members can add funds, and whether the program has a county match requirement. Staff said the county cover is from unmet‑needs funds with no local match required and that caregivers can place funds on a client’s account. The item was presented as an FYI fund transfer rather than a formal appropriation request at the meeting; staff asked legislators to publicize the program to constituents who might benefit.