The Yuma County Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority (YCIPTA) in Arizona will begin offering lifeline transit passes April 1 to low-income residents of the county. The Yuma Community Foundation and the San Luis Community Fund are providing money for this program, matched by the YCIPTA.

The agency can issue these passes either directly or through a partnership with the Western Arizona Council of Governments. Eligibility guidelines follow the federal standard for poverty established by the Department of Health and Human Services: a one-person household with income of $11,490 or less or a four-person household with an income of $23,550 or less. The discounted 30-day pass will cost $30 instead of the regular $60, and $15 instead of $30 for students (ages 5 through 18), seniors (age 65 and older), persons with disabilities, and Medicare card holders.

In addition, the agency will provide a limited number of single-day passes to nonprofit organizations that provide assistance to low-income residents upon filling out a request for donation form.

“YCAT is a part of the community, and those that need transportation but cannot afford it now will be able to get to social services, jobs, schools, and other quality of life destinations,” said Transit Director John Andoh.