Fare Assistance Programs

Gorge Transit Connect

The Gorge Transit Connect program is a collaborative initiative between local transit providers and community partners with the goal of reducing transportation barriers for community members experiencing low incomes by connecting them to fare assistance and travel training services. Financial support for the program comes from the Hood River County Transportation District, The Link Public Transit, the Gorge Pass Equity Fund, and local partners such as community-based organizations, state agencies, and health care institutions.  Fare assistance includes the purchase of the annual regional transit pass (Gorge Transit Pass) and access to other fixed route or dial-a-ride services, depending on the individual need. Partner organizations designate a Travel Ambassador representative who attends regular Gorge Transit Connect meetings to learn more about the regional public transportation system.  The Travel Ambassadors serve as a liaison between their clients and the resources provided by the Gorge Transit Connect program.
This program strengthens the partnership between service-focused community organizations and public transportation providers by creating public transportation advocates and travel trainers within each organization.  As a result, there has been a significant increase in funding for the program from these community partners, further enhancing its impact and effectiveness.
The Gorge Transit Connect program tackles the issue of transportation barriers faced by community members with limited financial resources through a partnership with local organizations. The program’s success lies in its collaborative approach that has not only improved the quality of life for individuals but has also fostered stronger community relationships, a broader recognition of the importance of public transportation, and more local investment.

How do I get free transit fare?

Do you work with one of the organizations listed here? Please reach out to your contact and they will help determine if you are eligible. Or call the Gorge Transit Connect program manager at (541) 296-2266, ext. 1007.

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OTHER PROGRAMS

VETERANS

Free passes and other benefits for US Veterans

HOOD RIVER & WASCO COUNTIES:

    • Call (541) 386-4202 to start taking advantage of the Go Vets Columbia Gorge program. A program travel trainer will set up an appointment to meet with you to discuss your travel needs and goals.
    • Or contact your Veteran Services Office for more information.

Free fares and passes on the following transit services:

      • Book-in-Advance Medical Shuttle—this is a by-reservation transportation service from the Gorge to several medical facilities in the Portland Metro area. The purpose of these trips can be to access medical services or to visit loved ones who are receiving medical care in Portland.
      • Dial-a-Ride in Hood River and Wasco Counties—Dial-a-Ride (DAR) is a service for those who live away from standard fixed-route transit and want to schedule a custom pickup and drop off within Hood River or Wasco counties. It’s ideal for getting to medical appointments, work, school, the grocery store, or any other general need.
      • Annual GOrge Pass—the GOrge Pass offers free fixed-route transit on the four major transit providers in the Gorge: Hood River, The Dalles, Skamania, and Klickitat counties.
      • Wasco County Shuttle Services—this includes a Shopping Shuttle, South County Shuttle, and more.

SUPPORTING ACCESS TO TRANSIT

Individuals and businesses can give the gift of freedom

HOW TO HELP:

STUDENTS

Free passes and fares for Oregon students

HOOD RIVER COUNTY:

  • Hood River County School District Middle and High Schoolers are eligible for a free Gorge Transit Pass
  • Students can visit their school office or the CAT office at 224 Wasco Loop in Hood River. If students choose to pick up a Gorge Pass at the CAT office, they should be accompanied by a parent or guardian and have their school ID.
  • Click here for more information.

WASCO COUNTY:

  • All middle and high school students in The Dalles can ride for free, whether it is for school or entertainment.
  • Present your Student ID to the driver when boarding the bus. High school students can also receive a free Gorge Transit Pass to ride free on all Gorge public transit. (Limited number of passes are available – ask your school’s Youth Outreach Worker!)
  • K-8 Students also ride for free with a paying adult (only applicable for school services).
  • Click here for more information.

BUSINESSES

Free passes for downtown businesses

HOOD RIVER: 

  • Employees of businesses located in Downtown City of Hood River are eligible for free Gorge Transit Passes through a partnership with the City of Hood River
  • CAT staff will be distributing Gorge Transit Passes to eligible employer locations. Thereafter passes will be available at the CAT office (224 Wasco Loop) based on eligibility and availability.
  • Click here for more information.

THE DALLES: 

  • Residents and employees in downtown The Dalles are eligible for a free Gorge Transit Pass through a partnership with the City of The Dalles
  • To sign up, fill out the form found at this link and  MCEDD’s Travel Trainer will contact you.
  • Click here for more information.
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