Youth Zero Pass

As of Sunday, September 4, 2022, Cherriots provides rides to youth ages 0-18 at no-cost to them. Previously, youth had a reduced fare rate. Now, the Youth Zero Pass eliminates the fare for all youth ages 0-18.

The Youth Zero Pass is applicable to all Cherriots Local, Cherriots Regional, and Cherriots LIFT, year-round. For those who are ages 0-18, no bus pass, cash, or identification is required - just board the bus and ride! And if you already have a Youth Fare Pass, don’t worry - Cherriots is offering reimbursements.

The Youth Zero Pass is made possible through a collaboration between Cherriots, the City of Salem, the City of Keizer, and the Salem-Keizer Public Schools District. The cities of Salem and Keizer and the school district have committed to funding this program for the next year. This commitment signifies an investment in the health and well-being of the community as a whole, but especially for those who rely on public transit the most.

Benefits

Perhaps the greatest benefit of the Youth Zero Pass is increased access for families within the community. By eliminating the fare for youth, families can travel together on public transit without the added financial burden of paying for children. Families will be able to bring their children with them during their weekly errands and activities without concern for the fare total. Public transit access is one of the strongest indicators of opportunity and upward mobility for families with lower incomes.

Youth in our community also stand to gain from the Youth Zero Pass. Many youth do not have access to a vehicle or driving privileges and therefore have limited mobility in the community. Walking, biking, and driving with peers are suitable means of getting around, but now riding the bus will be the safest and least expensive alternative. Increased youth ridership will help foster independence in the youth of our community and create a generation of public transit users.

For tips on how to have a safe and comfortable ride with children on board, visit our Riding with Kids page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: When did the Youth Zero Pass begin?

Answer: The Youth Zero Pass began Sunday, September 4.

Question: Who is eligible for Youth Zero Pass? 

Answer: All youth ages 0-18 do not pay a fare.

Question: What is the minimum age a youth needs to be to use Cherriots?

Answer: The recommended age for unaccompanied travel is 12. A measure of ability is that the individual can demonstrate safe, independent travel within the community. 

Question: Is there a pass or identification required to show eligibility to the bus operator?

Answer: No. Youth ages 0-18 will not be required to show any sort of pass or identification upon boarding the bus. Just get on and ride to your destination!

Question: What will happen with the Youth Fare Pass that I have already purchased?

Answer: Reimbursements will be processed by Customer Service using normal reimbursement procedures.

Question: Where is funding coming from to support this fare elimination?

Answer: The City of Salem, the City of Keizer, and the Salem-Keizer Public Schools District have approved one year of youth fare funding.

Question: Why did the City of Salem, the City of Keizer, and the Salem-Keizer Public Schools District choose to sponsor the Youth Zero Pass? 

Answer: There are many reasons, including breaking down barriers so that families and youth can access their community: groceries, medical appointments, recreational activities, church, and jobs. Families may not utilize public transportation because the cost of riding with their children can create a financial barrier. Increased access to public transit for youth and families makes for a healthier community. Additionally, building a culture of transit starts young. A culture of transit addresses social, economic, and environmental factors that affect the well-being of the community.