HAMILTON, ON – February 18, 2022 – Oh, the places you’ll go with Hamilton Public Library. A free child’s PRESTO card joins the growing list of perks that come with a HPL library card. The card enables children ages 6-12 to ride for free on HSR and Accessible Transportation Services (DARTS). Head to any HPL branch to get a free PRESTO card until supplies last.

Starting Friday, February 18, hop on board by following these three easy steps:

1. Show your child’s existing HPL library card (or register for one – it’s easy and free too) and pick up a free PRESTO card at any of HPL’s 23 branches.
2. Update your child’s PRESTO card with their birthdate at any HSR Customer Service Centre, City Hall or Service Centres in Ancaster, Dundas or Stoney Creek, or any Fortinos or Shoppers Drug Mart to ensure continued access to the free fare promotion. Bring ID with proof of your child’s age (birth certificate, health card, passport.)
3. Hop on the HSR bus and tap your PRESTO card. You’re on your way!

There’s no need to add money to the PRESTO card. Hamilton City Council approved free rides for children ages 6-12 using PRESTO until April 30, 2023, as part of the City’s HSR Fare Incentives for Ridership Recovery plan, released last October.

The PRESTO card giveaway, which is intended to help allay financial barriers for young people, is funded by a generous donation from a donor who wishes to remain anonymous and the Hamilton Community Foundation.

Quotes:

“This pilot project with Hamilton Public Library made possible by the generous support of an anonymous donor and the Hamilton Community Foundation, and the City’s HSR Fare Incentives for Ridership Recovery program will make a meaningful difference to families and young transit users in Hamilton. It is important to invest in projects that propel all parts of our city forward. By expanding access to transit for children ages 6-12, this program provides a cost-saving transit option to families with young Hamiltonians and supports exploring our vibrant city.”
- Mayor Fred Eisenberger

“HSR is pleased to partner with HPL on this project. We know the pandemic has been difficult for many families in our community and by offering children free rides with PRESTO, we are providing an affordable transportation option to help children and their families explore everything our city has to offer.”
- Maureen Cosyn Heath, Director of Transit, Hamilton Street Railway

“This HSR/HPL pilot program for children gives all Hamilton kids the freedom to explore their City on the HSR and discover all that Hamilton Public Library offers. Many thanks to our transit partners, the City of Hamilton and HSR, a generous donor and Hamilton Community Foundation for supporting this great new program.”
- Paul Takala, CEO Hamilton Public Library