Highway 407 ETR is making travel on the Ontario toll highway more affordable for drivers and families that are considered to have a low income.

The highway operator announced its new Route Relief Program, which offers eligible drivers up to six free trips each month on the 407.

“We’re proud to provide support for families who need it most and this program helps ensure that more drivers have access to a fast, safe and reliable commute,” said Javier Tamargo, president and CEO, 407 ETR, in a news release. “We hope this program will make it easier for our customers to enjoy a stress-free journey to get to a game or to a doctor’s appointment without worrying about their bill.”

Drivers who are accepted into the program are enrolled for a one-year term with the option to renew upon meeting the eligibility requirements.

The free rides will be available on the stretch of the highway owned by 407 ETR, between the QEW in Burlington and Brock Road in Pickering. The portion east of Brock Road, which is owned by the province, is not eligible for the relief program.

To qualify, you must fall within the definition of low-income, as specified by Statistics Canada. Highway 407 has a breakdown of income thresholds depending on the size of the driver’s household.

Applicants will be asked to submit supporting documents, including proof of residency, proof of plate ownership and proof of income. The relief program is open only to Ontario residents and individuals must not have an outstanding 407 ETR balance. The vehicle must be registered in the driver’s name and cannot be a business vehicle.

The highway operator says that while it has various short-term financial assistance programs available to 407 ETR customers, this is the first one offering free trips on a monthly basis for an extended period.

Since 2019, 407 ETR has accepted nearly 5,000 customers to its financial assistance programs and provided more than $10 million worth of sponsorships, donations and free travel in that time.

More information about eligibility and the application process is available at 407etr.com/routerelief.