Free transit for Edmonton’s most vulnerable people
May 9, 2017
The PATH (Providing Accessible Transit Here) program offers Edmonton’s most vulnerable better access to education, employment opportunities and various social services by providing free monthly transit passes. Increasing the accessibility of critical services allows individuals to make stronger connections, stay safe and improve their situation.
“The City of Edmonton, through End Poverty Edmonton, is committed to breaking the unintentional consequences of poverty, namely, for being fined for not being able to afford a bus ticket,” said Mayor Don Iveson. “Making transit reliable, accessible and affordable for all Edmontonians is critical.”
PATH is sponsored by the City of Edmonton and provided through various social agencies. The program gives homeless Edmontonians or those at a high risk of homelessness free public transit access in order to get food, go to school, travel to work, find housing, attend medical appointments and access social services.
“iHuman is grateful to be one of the initial partners in the youth-focused pilot which now includes adult vulnerable populations. Many have put their heads and hearts together to provide a solution for individuals facing barriers to transportation,” said Catherine Broomfield, Executive Director, iHuman Youth Society.
“Seeing other people getting fines is scary, and it makes me feel glad I have a pass,” said Trent Pierre with Native Counselling Services of Alberta. “I can now see my friends and family more and get to places on time.”
PATH expanded upon a youth transit access project between the City and social agencies serving local youth. PATH is another avenue the City offers to people who cannot afford to access transit. DONATE A RIDE is another program which, thanks to the generosity of Edmontonians, provides free transit tickets for short term needs.
For more information:
edmonton.ca/ProvidingAccessibleTransitHere
Media contact:
Adrienne C. Hill
Communications Advisor
City of Edmonton
780-691-4347
NT5
