Individuals experiencing homelessness in Amarillo have another support resource thanks to the generosity of the Mary E. Bivins Foundation and the cooperative efforts of Amarillo City Transit (ACT) and the Partners of the Coming Home Program.
The aforementioned entities have created the Transit Access Partnership (TAP) – a new initiative beginning Tuesday (July 1) aimed at removing transportation barriers for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Through TAP, individuals with a verified Clarity – Homeless Information Management System (HMIS) ID will be able to access free rides on fixed-route ACT buses throughout Amarillo. The program will operate as a pilot program through the end of the year.
TAP is possible through grant funding from the Mary E. Bivins Foundation, which generously awarded $10,000 to support transportation access for vulnerable populations. The grant is administered through the nonprofit Partners of the Coming Home Program.
The program is designed to be simple for riders and low burden for ACT staff:
- Riders present their Clarity HMIS ID, which includes a photo and is issued by local homeless service providers. ACT drivers have been trained to recognize and accept the IDs. Rides will be tracked for accountability and monthly data will be used to assess the impact.
By improving mobility, TAP supports Amarillo’s broader goals of housing stability, community health and equitable access to services. If successful, both parties hope to expand the program and seek additional support through state or federal transportation funding.
For more information contact City of Amarillo Media Relations Manager Dave Henry at 806-378-5219 or by email at david.henry@amarillo.gov.