Green Trolleys Hit the Streets: CVCOA and Net Zero Vermont Team Up for Green Mobility

Older Vermonters are traveling and transporting items with efficiency and ease, thanks to a partnership that began 18 months ago between Central Vermont Council on Aging and Net Zero Vermont, a non-profit organization with the mission to encourage people to adopt a shared vision for a sustainable future.  

When staff from both groups met to explore how their shared missions—supporting the independence and well-being of older adults—could align, it was clear that Net Zero Vermont’s Walk to Shop trolleys would be a great benefit to CVCOA’s community. 

The green trolley is designed as a practical, sustainable tool that makes transit use easier and grocery shopping more manageable, even compared to similar products. With its lightweight, ergonomic design and practical storage options, the trolley enables people to carry their groceries and necessities with ease while walking and riding the bus.  

CVCOA staff and partner senior center staff are working together to distribute trolleys to older adults, and what began as a small collaboration has rolled into something much bigger. Senior centers across Washington, Orange, and Lamoille counties, including Randolph Senior Center, Mad River Seniors and Montpelier Senior Activity Center, along with Green Mountain Transit (GMT), have eagerly joined in.  

They note the overwhelmingly positive response from recipients, who report that the trolleys make it easier to bring home fresh groceries, stay active, and reduce reliance on car trips. As one person put it, “It makes me feel more confident and capable—plus, it’s fun to use.” 

CVCOA Director of Nutrition and Wellness, Kimberly Lipinski says, “Yes, these have become very popular in the communities we’ve shared with so far. The sample carts are now going to more senior centers, so we expect to have new orders soon!” 

The trolleys have even become instrumental to women participating in a rug hooking class at Montpelier Senior Activity Center. One participant said, “My project is very heavy and very big . . . carrying it from the car to the building was really difficult. I can get everything in [the trolley] and bring it to the building and it rolls very easily. It makes it all so light. I was very excited.”  

Encouraged by this success, CVCOA, Net Zero Vermont, and Green Mountain Transit are now seeking additional funding to expand the program so more older Vermonters can enjoy the benefits of this small but mighty green tool. 

The success of this project is further evidence that healthy aging and sustainable living can roll hand in hand.  

Photo credit: Net Zero Vermont