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Canada city offers free public transit to youth and elderly

Words by Tess Becker

Incentivizing public transit benefits both people and planet; it cuts emissions, is more affordable than car ownership, and reduces traffic in major cities. 

One town in Ontario, Canada is doing just that by allowing youth and seniors to ride for free.

The town, called Oakville, voted on the proposition in February and launched the initiative this month. 

“Providing free public transit for youth and seniors is an important investment Council is making to enhance transportation options for the overall well-being of our community,” Mayor Rob Burton said.

“Removing the cost to travel on Oakville Transit means more people can get around town more easily and will increase uptake in transit usage. Free transit promotes sustainability and equity and supports Council’s continued efforts to create a thriving and livable Oakville.” 

The free rides are available to anyone under the age of 20 and over the age of 65. 

Local officials say taking public transit “is a sustainable mode of transportation. It helps get people where they need to be while taking more cars off the road. Less congestion on roads means more opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, leading to a cleaner environment.”

Charity check-in

At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.

Beacon Food Forest. This is one of the largest food forests in the country. Find out more and support them here
Cultural Survival. They are an indigenous-led nonprofit focused on empowering indigenous Americans and helping the planet. Find out more.

This article aligns with the UN SDG Climate Action.

This article aligns with the following UN SDGs

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