Open

Affordable Bus Pass Program

Half-price monthly bus passes for eligible residents

Offered by

City of Thunder Bay

Official source: thunderbay.ca

Source change captured May 15, 2026

Funding available: $ 50; Up to 50% of project cost
Deadline: Open continuously
Location: Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Who can apply: Thunder Bay residents.; See full eligibility

Overview

This program offers eligible Thunder Bay residents an adult monthly bus pass at half price. It supports income-based transit access and is limited to one pass per approved household member each month.

At a glance

Funding available

Maximum funding: $50
Maximum share of project costs: 50%

Financing goals

Develop a new program or service
Increase social or community impact
Enhance an existing program
Raise awareness or mobilize a population

Eligible candidates

Location: Thunder Bay
Ontario
Eligible Industries: All industries
Annual revenue: All revenue ranges
Organisation size: All organization sizes
Audience: All groups
Legal structures: Public or Parapublic institution

Start applying for this program

Take a practical assessment to gain a clear understanding of how well this program aligns with your specific needs and long-term goals.

Availability timeline

2026

Periods: 1

Latest changes

May 15, 2026

Affordable Bus Pass eligibility and terms updated

The Affordable Bus Pass program now shows clearer eligibility rules and confirms the half-price monthly pass benefit and limited first-come, first-served spots.

The Affordable Bus Pass section now presents more explicit eligibility criteria, including Thunder Bay residency, ages 25 to 59, household income limits, and not receiving certain transit subsidies. It also reinforces the program structure as a pilot with limited annual spots and first-come, first-served approvals.

Official source: thunderbay.ca

May 15, 2026

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

Thunder Bay residents.
Individuals aged 25 to 59.
Households seeking an adult monthly transit pass.

Who is not eligible

People already receiving transit assistance through Ontario Works, ODSP, or the Passport Program.
Applicants outside the age range of 25 to 59.

Eligible expenses

One adult monthly bus pass per approved household member, sold at half price.

Ineligible Costs and Activities

Transit assistance already received through Ontario Works, ODSP, or the Passport Program.
Additional bus passes beyond the monthly limit per approved household member.

Eligible geographic areas

City of Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Activities funded

Purchase of an adult monthly bus pass at a reduced rate.

How to apply

Step 1: Complete the application form
- Fill out the program application.
- Provide household, income, and residency information.
Step 2: Submit the application
- Send the completed application to Lakehead Social Planning Council.
Step 3: Await a decision
- Applications are reviewed and applicants are informed whether they are accepted or rejected.
Step 4: Buy the pass if approved
- Show your approval letter or ID at the Transit Administration Office to purchase the pass.

Selection criteria

Financial need based on household income.
First come, first served intake once the program limit is reached.

Processing and Agreement

Applications are reviewed by Lakehead Social Planning Council.
Applications are approved or denied based on financial criteria and program capacity.
Applicants are notified by letter of acceptance or rejection.
Approved applicants can purchase the pass at the Transit Administration Office.