Whitehorse Nonprofits Urge Government to Revive Free Transit Program

URGENT UPDATE: Non-profit organizations in Whitehorse are calling on the Yukon government to revive a vital free transit program that just expired on Sunday. The initiative, which ran for 13 months, provided essential bus tickets and passes to those in need, enabling access to jobs, medical appointments, and community events.

The Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition is spearheading efforts to reinstate the program through a circulating petition, emphasizing its critical role in supporting residents. “It makes it possible for people to get to work, attend medical appointments, buy groceries, go to school, and take part in local events,” the Coalition stated.

During its operation, the program distributed 13,000 monthly passes and 22,000 individual bus tickets, amounting to a total expenditure of $1.2 million funded by the Yukon government. The Yukon Party, now in power, has signaled that it will not renew this funding, leading to growing concerns among community leaders.

New Minister of Community Services, Cory Bellmore, confirmed that she is reviewing data from the previous administration’s program. “I’m awaiting data on the program from my department,” she stated, adding that she will assess the effectiveness and impact of the initiative.

The program was initially introduced as part of a cooperation agreement between the Yukon NDP and the former Liberal government. The NDP proposed free transit for all, but when that failed to gain traction, funds were redirected to support the ticket program.

Local organizations like the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Society Yukon (FASSY) relied heavily on this initiative. Executive Director Neena Mackinnon reported distributing up to 60 passes every month, highlighting the profound impact on clients seeking transportation assistance. “Without the transit initiative, we can’t afford to purchase a bus pass for everyone who asks,” Mackinnon explained.

Residents are already feeling the effects of the program’s termination. Senior citizen Peter Becker, who used a free transit pass to run errands, expressed dismay. “A $33 senior bus pass is a chunk of money,” he stated, emphasizing that the program kept food on the table for many while providing independence to those in need.

Officials from the City of Whitehorse, while not directly involved in the ticket distribution, acknowledged the program’s significance at a recent city council meeting. Councillor Lenore Morris expressed regret over its conclusion, noting that it was highly valued within the community.

As the Yukon government deliberates on the future of transportation assistance, the urgency for a decision grows. Thousands of residents depend on these services for their daily activities, and the community is rallying to ensure that the voices of those impacted are heard.

The Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition’s petition is gathering momentum, with many residents urging the government to reconsider its stance. The next steps will be critical as community leaders await responses from officials regarding the future of vital transit support in Whitehorse.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the community fights for access to essential services.