The Braddock-based nonprofit Heritage Community Transportation (HTC) that provides low-cost bus services for Mon Valley residents is now accepting applications from schools, government-affiliated entities, and other nonprofits for its courtesy rider card program.
Heritage is the only human service nonprofit designated a public transportation provider in Pennsylvania. The courtesy rider card program, launched in 2021, issues service-based organizations three-month complimentary rider cards for their constituents. Past recipients include agencies like Catholic Charities, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, and WIC. The deadline is August 4; recipients will be announced in September.
Heritage buses serve 16 eastern Allegheny County communities, including East Pittsburgh, McKeesport and Monroeville, and they connect to Pittsburgh Regional Transit buses.
Bus services normally cost 25 cents a ride for adults, 10 cents for children 6 to 11. Adults 65 and older can show HCT’s free Blue Card pass, a Medicare ID, or a state-issued transit card to ride for free.
“Reliable transportation is a key element of socioeconomic mobility,” said Paula G.
McWilliams in a news release. McWilliams is president and CEO of Heritage Community Initiatives, which operates Heritage Community Transportation.
Heritage offers education and nutrition programs to eligible residents throughout southwestern Pennsylvania in addition to the bus service.
“We offer accessible, affordable transportation, providing access to jobs, health care, education and many other essential services for the people we are privileged to serve,” McWilliams said.
90.5 WESA | By Glynis Board