IndyGo, DART programs to support riders facing financial barriers

Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation (IndyGo) and Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) are partnering with local entities and foundations on efforts designed to support those riders facing financial barriers.

In Indiana, the Indianapolis Public Transportation Foundation (IPTF) and IndyGo are partnering to extend the Mobility Access Fund (MAF) to Marion County 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations for the second year.

The MAF offers two resources to nonprofit organizations to help decrease the financial barrier for their clients using public transportation, including Bus Pass Grants and the Nonprofit Discount Program. The goal is to make it easier for nonprofits to assist Marion County residents seeking employment, food, healthcare and other essential services.

Through the Bus Pass Grants program, nonprofits can apply for free bus passes through an annual competitive grant process that distributes funds as they are available. Applications are now being accepted online through Oct. 31. Grants are expected to be awarded in January 2023.

In 2021, IPTF distributed nearly 97,000 days of free transportation to 61 organizations.

“Our Mobility Access Fund is one of the best and most effective ways for us to directly connect with the nonprofit community here in Marion County,” said IPTF Executive Director Emily Meaux. “Between last year’s grants and our continued nonprofit discount program, we’ve already worked with more than 75 nonprofits to make a difference in residents’ lives. We’re excited to see how much of a positive impact the fund will have on our community in the coming year as well.”

DART offers eligible riders free cell service

In Texas, DART and its partner Assurance Wireless will offer eligible riders free cell phone service and a free smartphone. Riders currently enrolled in a qualifying federal or state assistance program, including Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, Children’s Health Insurance Program, Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program, DHA: Housing Solutions for North Texas, Housing Choice Voucher Program or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, may qualify for the free phone and service.

DART will hold several events in September and November where eligible riders should bring proof of participation in qualifying programs. DART says proof must include a person’s full name and address and be dated to show current participation.

Additionally, DART is offering participants who attend events a Discount GoPass® Tap Card, with a 50% discount on the regular price of a DART pass. DART launched the Discount GoPass® Tap Card pilot-program to ensure riders who qualify have access to jobs, health care and educational opportunities, reducing social and economic inequalities by making mobility financially feasible to more people.

More information about the free cell events are available at DART.org/freesmartphone.