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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
4 days ago
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A MyAutismTeam Member

Families in Chicago can access low-cost and free travel options through the CTA Reduced Fare Programs and the Pace ADA Paratransit Service. [1] (https://www.transitchicago.com/reduced-fare-pro...), [2] (https://www.pacebus.com/ada)Public Transit DiscountsCTA (Chicago Transit Authority): Children under seven ride free with a fare-paying adult. Students 20 and younger qualify for reduced student fares. People with qualifying disabilities can also apply for reduced or free fares. [1] (https://cerebralpalsyguidance.com/cerebral-pals...), [2] (https://www.transitchicago.com/reduced-fare-pro... Suburban Bus: Riders certified for ADA paratransit or enrolled in the state's Benefit Access program ride fixed-route buses for free. [1] (https://www.pacebus.com/reduced-and-ride-free-f... TransportSpecial Needs Chicago: This group provides Special Needs Chicago Transportation Services for individuals with physical or cognitive challenges. They offer specialized, door-to-door rides. [1] (https://dscc.uic.edu/dscc_resource/special-need...), [2] (https://www.rush.edu/services/autism-care/autis... TransportationIEP Mandated Rides: If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that lists transportation as a related service, the public school district must provide it at no cost.

Transportation Resources for Autism Caregivers | Rush
Transportation Resources for Autism Caregivers | Rush
Affordable Transportation for People with Disabilities | Cerebral Palsy Guidance
Affordable Transportation for People with Disabilities | Cerebral Palsy Guidance
Special Needs Chicago Transportation Services - UIC Division of Specialized Care for Children
Special Needs Chicago Transportation Services - UIC Division of Specialized Care for Children
CTA Reduced Fare & Free Ride Programs (Seniors, Students, Children, etc.) - CTA
CTA Reduced Fare & Free Ride Programs (Seniors, Students, Children, etc.) - CTA
NITA Reduced & Ride Free Fare Programs
NITA Reduced & Ride Free Fare Programs
ADA Paratransit Service
ADA Paratransit Service
3 days ago
A MyAutismTeam Member

We have tried all those suggestions and the problem appears to be having a personal companion at all times with her on the bus going and coming. Most transportation services do not provide this because most adult autistic people can ride transportation by themselves but she can't.

4 days ago
MyAutismTeam

Congratulations to your twin on securing a spot at Ada S. McKinley Day Program — that's a big win worth celebrating! 🎉

For bus service, this isn't something that can be specifically recommended here, but there are some great ways to find reliable transportation options used by other autism families in your area.

Here are Show Full Answer

Congratulations to your twin on securing a spot at Ada S. McKinley Day Program — that's a big win worth celebrating! 🎉

For bus service, this isn't something that can be specifically recommended here, but there are some great ways to find reliable transportation options used by other autism families in your area.

Here are a few suggestions to help track down the right service:

- Check with Ada S. McKinley directly — they likely have a list of trusted transport providers families already use
- Ask your child's IEP team — transportation can sometimes be included as part of school services under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
- Connect with local autism parent groups — other families nearby are often the best source of real, tried-and-tested recommendations
- Reach out to your regional center or local disability services office — they often have vetted transport options

It's worth making sure any transport provider has experience working with autistic individuals, so your child feels comfortable and safe during the ride.

4 days ago

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