Beaches nonprofit offers free transportation during holidays
As the holidays approach, Beaches Council on Aging wants the Beaches community to remember that transportation shouldn’t be a barrier to spending time with friends and family. Their Dial-A-Ride program provides free, reliable, safe rides for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can participate in holiday celebrations, no matter their ability to drive.
In 2025 alone, 111 new riders joined the program, reflecting the growing need for accessible transportation, especially during the busy holiday season. Those who relied on Dial-A-Ride during previous holidays can now be the ones heading out to visit local family and friends, rather than waiting for loved ones to come to them. Dial-a-Ride serves the Jacksonville Beaches community from Atlantic Beach to Ponte Vedra, as well as Mayo Clinic and the Cypress Village area.
Spending time with loved ones can have a real impact on wellbeing. According to Gallup.com, 57% of individuals report feeling happier when surrounded by friends and family during the holidays. Dial-A-Ride helps make that possible for those who might otherwise be isolated.
Beaches Council on Aging relies on donations in order to operate Dial-A-Ride. To help keep seniors and individuals with disabilities connected, not just during the holidays, but all year long, go to https://beachescoa.org/donate.
Founded in 1975, Beaches Council on Aging is dedicated to helping older adults maintain independence, dignity and connection as they age. Among its most impactful programs is Dial-a-Ride, a free transportation service offering seniors and people with disabilities safe, reliable rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, social activities and more. In addition, the organization facilitates access to critical resources through the Beaches Senior Network, including but not limited to financial aid, food assistance, home repairs and Medicare guidance.