We’re stronger together:
Our incredible supporters.

I see the tangible benefit that the free bus passes have had for our students and I am convinced that that opportunity should be extended to our entire community. I understand that this requires a considerable investment, but I am confident that that money will be returned with interest. Eliminating bus fares will increase job opportunities, boost our local economy and make our bus system safer. It would truly be a win-win for our entire city.

Thank you for your recent efforts in moving our city towards Zero Fare transportation. Transportation is critical to create equity for opportunities for those in our city who struggle the most. Many of these individuals are daily making decisions on what is most important to spend their money on – getting to and from work, accessing health/mental health appointments, paying for prescriptions and groceries are a few conflicting priorities. When individuals are not having to spend money on transportation, that opens up their options to use that money elsewhere in support of their family.

The free bus pass is transformative for HM C-1 scholars. It eliminates transportation barriers and opens up endless opportunities our scholars would not have otherwise. The Student Pass Program allows our students access to after-school tutoring, activities, jobs and internships.

I know there is currently a conversation taking place regarding funding for zero fare transit, and it is important you know HM C-1 students benefit immensely as a result of their current opportunity.

As a provider who works with multi-barrier families, we are particularly supportive of this effort because we know that transportation is critical. Sheffield Place’s mission is “to empower homeless mothers and their children to heal from their trauma and to become self-sufficient.” The goals of our families are to have stable housing, to have increased income, and to be healthy (clean, sober). To accomplish these, not only is transportation necessary, it is the single thing that connects our families to services, jobs and housing.

Zero Fare transportation enables our families to work toward, to achieve and to maintain their goals. Without accessible, Zero Fare transportation reaching self-sufficiency is not possible for low/no income families.