Senior Programs & Services

Senior Resource Guide

A comprehensive guide to senior services available in Union County.

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Union County Paratransit System Provides Transportation to Senior Citizens

The Union County Paratransit System can provide transportation to senior/disabled residents anywhere in Union County, Monday through Friday 7:30am-5:30pm, excluding holidays.

Travelers must make a reservation at least 6 days in advance, but reservations are accepted up to 3 weeks in advance. The fare is $3.00 each way, totaling a round trip to $6.00. However, in the event you are unable to pay, waivers based on riders' income are available. If a rider requires someone to travel with them, there is no charge for that individual. Billing will be done each month following the month of service, payable by check or money order ONLY to "Union County Paratransit Program."

Paratransit is a door-to-door service, so riders must be able to get to the bus. All buses are handicap accessible and have wheelchair lifts and lock-down in the van.

Paratransit reservations can be made at 908-241-8300 (Option 1). In addition to providing transportation to physicians, shopping, and other locations, Paratransit also provides a Route 22 shuttle service, which information can be found for here.

Paratransit also provides specific resources for Union County veterans to access major veteran medical clinics in and out of county, which occur on specific days. These include service to Lyons Hospital every Tuesday and Thursday, service to East Orange VA Hospital every Monday and Wednesday, and service daily to the veterans' clinic at Trinitas Hospital.

Aging in Place Program

Morris Habitat for Humanity has an Aging in Place program for seniors over the age of 62 living in specific NJ Counties, in which Scotch Plains residents are eligible. Work that is eligible includes anything that will improve the mobility, accessibility, or safety of your home, as well as energy efficient repairs.

Please visit www.MorrisHabitat.org/aging-in-place or call 973-891-1934 for more information or to apply.

Bus Transportation

FIRST, SIGN UP

First fill out a registration form that can be downloaded here, be picked up at the Recreation Department office or mailed to you by calling either the Dial-A-Ride number, (908) 322-5151 or the main Recreation Department number, (908) 322-6700  ext. 223 or 221. All passengers must be a self-reliant senior (age 55 or older) or be accompanied by an aide.

Then to make an appointment for transportation, call (908) 322-5151. Leave a message 48 hours or more prior to your need and a department representative with call you back within 24 hours during business days. This service is offered on a limited, first come first served basis.

DAYS AND TIMES 

Approx. 10:30 am is usually the earliest home pick up time and the last return pick up time is 1:00 p.m., Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, when available.  Other times are occasionally available. Call for details.

Wednesday and Friday morning bus trips are provided for seniors to the Blue Star Shopping Center in Watchung.  Registered Fanwood and Scotch Plains seniors wishing to use this service must call and leave a message at (908) 322-5151 any time before 8:30 a.m. on the day of the trip.

Trips to various other shopping malls are offered the third Monday of most months. This is a door-to-door service with pickups starting at 9:00 a.m.  The bus departs the mall at 1:45 p.m. Interested registered seniors must call the Recreation Dept. office in advance of the trip date.

Transportation is also available to the following;

Meridian Club: Open to all seniors, the club meets at the Shady Rest Country Club, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesdays. Call Laura Swidersky, (908) 889-2084, for information.

Golden Age Club: Open to all seniors, the club meets at the Shady Rest Country Club, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Thursdays. Call Ilse Heinemeyer, (908) 322-1788, for information.