Back to SearchWHITBY, ON – Durham Region Transit (DRT) continues to prioritize the transit needs of Durham Region residents by introducing a new pilot fare program, the Transit Assistance Program (TAP) for low-income individuals. This PRESTO-based program will launch Nov. 1, 2019 and will improve transit access and affordability for customers currently receiving Social Assistance in Durham Region. With TAP you can pay as you go and ride DRT unlimited for the month for only $44.80.
The Nov. 1 launch extends to Ontario Works (OW) recipients, while Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipients are soft-launching, with a phased-in approach over the next several months. The PRESTO-based TAP program will help to eliminate the stigma that some customers have about displaying a separate low-income pass when boarding the bus. To support the launch of the pilot program, approximately 6,000 free PRESTO cards will be made available to eligible customers.
“We are pleased to provide an innovative Transit Assistance Program to ensure local Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program clients receive reliable and affordable access to public transit,” says Regional Chair John Henry.
“The TAP program is an excellent example of various Regional departments – in this case Social Services and DRT – partnering to ensure low-cost transit access to Durham Region residents, regardless of their income or demographic,” notes Shaun Collier, Mayor of Ajax and Chair of the Transit Executive Committee.
“Launching this program on PRESTO allows for increased flexibility and additional convenience for customers,” adds Bill Holmes, Acting General Manager at DRT. “Because the monthly TAP amount can be carried over if the full amount isn’t used, we’re helping our residents and customers have access to the transit service they need, when they need it.”
“We are very pleased to be working closely with Durham Region Transit to improve the affordability of transit services for social assistance recipients in the Region. The TAP program will help more Ontario Works clients stay connected to essential job, education and health care opportunities,” adds Commissioner of Social Services, Stella Danos-Papaconstantinou.
Visit durhamregiontransit.com to learn more about the TAP program.
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Media inquiries:
DURHAM REGION TRANSIT COMMISSION
Shelley Pollock – Marketing and Communications
905-668-7711 ext. 3701 or shelley.pollock@durham.ca
If this information is required in an accessible format, please call 1-866-247-0055.
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