Since its launch in March 2023, Santa Cruz METRO’s Youth Cruz Free program has been making waves. The initiative, which provides free rides on any METRO bus to youth in grades K-12, has resulted in a remarkable 536% increase in youth bus ridership. In 2024, Youth Cruz Free won first place in the American Public Transit Association’s prestigious AdWheel Awards, the transit industry’s premier recognition for excellence in communications, marketing and community outreach.
Youth Cruz Free, which will run through December 31, 2024, serves as a beacon of accessibility and empowerment for young people in Santa Cruz County. By eliminating transportation barriers, METRO aims to cultivate a lifelong habit of transit usage while broadening opportunities and resources for all youth, especially those in historically underserved communities.
Employing the power of digital media combined with in-person outreach, METRO launched a comprehensive marketing campaign reaching parents and teens on their preferred online platforms and at popular community events. This inclusive approach ensured the program’s message touched every corner of the community. With content available in English and Spanish, METRO made it possible for families from diverse backgrounds to embrace the benefits of public transportation.
Always a proud supporter of the community, METRO continues to seek opportunities to engage with Santa Cruz County’s youth. On May 4, from 12-4 p.m., METRO will participate in the Kids’ Day event in Downtown Santa Cruz. METRO representatives will educate young attendees about the importance of public transportation and the incredible opportunities offered through Youth Cruz Free.
Kids’ Day is a fantastic event bringing the community together and offering engaging activities for children of all ages. With METRO’s participation, attendees will have the chance to learn more about the services, ask questions about bus routes, and gain a deeper understanding of how the Youth Cruz Free program can positively impact their lives. This hands-on engagement will empower young individuals to become confident and independent transit users, facilitating their navigation throughout the county.
The Youth Cruz Free program has already transformed the lives of many young individuals by granting them the freedom to effortlessly explore their community. Through the program, children and teenagers can now access a myriad of educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities scattered throughout Santa Cruz County. By riding METRO buses, they can conveniently reach schools, libraries, parks, museums, and numerous other destinations without financial constraints.
METRO firmly believes in the power of transportation to elevate lives, and the Youth Cruz Free program exemplifies this commitment. The program fosters a sense of independence in young individuals while also reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. By encouraging Santa Cruz County’s youth to embrace sustainable transportation alternatives from an early age, METRO actively contributes to a greener and more connected community.
Seize the opportunity to engage with METRO at the Kids’ Day event on May 4. Visit their booth to gain valuable insights into public transportation and the Youth Cruz Free program. Discover how this innovative initiative is reshaping access and opportunities for youth across Santa Cruz County and learn how your child can benefit from this exceptional program.
METRO’s Youth Cruz Free campaign has had an indelible impact on the community, and their dedication to empowering young individuals is an inspiration to all. As they strive to create a brighter future for Santa Cruz County, your support is vital in ensuring that every child and teenager can enjoy the benefits of the Youth Cruz Free program. Together, let’s pave the way for a community where every young person can thrive.
