Recognizing those who have served the nation's military, the Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) will honor veterans with the launch of its reduced-fare VVTA Veterans Pass.
The reduced rates, which approximate half the regular fare rates, will be available for all VVTA fixed routes, county routes, and BV-Link San Bernardino Lifeline Service, beginning April 21.
"Assisting our veterans and those experiencing financial hardship is extremely satisfying,” said VVTA Board Member, Barb Stanton, who sought the creation of the program for which the board unanimously approved. “Understanding there was no provision in place in the past, it is gratifying that these reduced rates will assist and honor our High Desert veterans and their service to this country."
Honorably discharged U.S. veterans with a VVTA Veterans Pass, San Bernardino County Veterans identification card, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs identification card, or U.S. Uniformed Services identification card will receive the reduced fare upon presentation of required identification to the bus operator. Those seeking the VVTA Veterans Pass must apply in person at VVTA and present a government-issued identification and a DD-214 form.
"Here in the High Desert, everything is so spread out, making it really difficult for our veterans to get to work and simultaneously attend Victor Valley College, where they pursue their personal goals," said Kelly Maxwell, CEO of Orenda House, a veteran support home in Apple Valley. "Most of our guys really have it very difficult, and any type of discount they receive from VVTA really goes a long way in helping them get back on their feet.”
The veterans in the Victor Valley who will benefit from the fare reduction form one of the densest populations of veterans in San Bernardino County.
“Experience has proven that when veterans receive a part time job and go to school through the Federal Pell Grant Program, they have a much better opportunity for long term success,” said Maxwell. “Getting them to work and school is where VVTA comes in.”
