In a recent Boston City government meeting, community members shared heartfelt reflections on the evolving landscape of transportation and services for the elderly, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges. The discussions, which took place on May 28, 2025, during the Ways & Means FY26 Budget session, underscored the importance of accessible transportation and community programs for seniors.

One resident reminisced about a time when a shuttle service would take seniors shopping, a service that has seemingly faded from the community. “I don’t see that anymore,” she lamented, emphasizing the need for reliable transportation options that allow the elderly to engage with their community and access essential services.

Another speaker echoed these sentiments, noting the improvements in hospital transportation but also pointing out that many seniors remain unaware of the available resources. “A lot of elderly are not taking advantage of it,” she said, stressing the importance of outreach and education to ensure that seniors are informed about their options.

Barbara Critchlow, a resident from Mattapan, shared her personal journey in advocating for senior programs. After losing her friend Thelma Burns, she was inspired to create a community program at the Milford Avenue Community Center. “We kept asking why isn’t there a program in Mattapan?” she recalled. Her efforts, supported by city worker Erica Butler, led to the revival of a senior program in the area, but Critchlow emphasized the need for financial support from city council members to sustain and promote these initiatives.

The meeting highlighted a critical intersection of community needs and government action, as residents called for increased awareness and funding for programs that support the elderly. As Boston continues to grow and change, the voices of its seniors remain vital in shaping a more inclusive and accessible city. The discussions from this meeting serve as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to ensure that all residents, especially the elderly, can thrive in their communities.