Key Points

• Transportation is a barrier for some when it comes to maintaining employment.
• Lyft saw a need in the community and stepped in to fill the gap. 
• Lyft’s free rides have assisted BETTER WORK participants and given them time to make a plan.

“You’re hired!” Those two words can completely change someone’s life. But for someone who doesn’t have transportation, those two words can be heartbreaking.  

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lyft recognized widespread job loss created significant transportation needs for many, so they responded by partnering with nonprofit organizations across the United States to give away free rides to those in need. The company has pledged to provide 60 million free rides to help people get to vaccination appointments, job interviews, and other important destinations. The program is also aimed at reducing social isolation and improving quality of life for those in need.

The initiative is aimed specifically at addressing the transportation barriers faced by low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities. As we know, lack of access to transportation is a major barrier to economic and social mobility. Many people are unable to access basic services such as healthcare, education, and employment due to transportation issues.

And, in case you aren’t familiar with Lyft, it is a ride-sharing company that has made a name for itself in the transportation industry by providing rides to people all over the world.

Lyft and BETTER WORK work together

Lyft’s community project is focused on giving back to those in need by providing them with free rides. The company has partnered with various non-profit organizations—including United Way, National Urban League, and Goodwill—to identify individuals who are most in need of free rides. It’s through BETTER WORK’S close partnership with United Way we are able to directly access Lyft’s free ride initiative for BETTER WORK participants to utilize the service to attend job interviews and two weeks worth of transportation to and from work. (The idea is to allow participants the opportunity to receive a first paycheck and work out a transportation plan.) 

The project has been met with widespread praise from both the public and nonprofit organizations. Many people have expressed their gratitude for the free rides, which have allowed them to access essential services and maintain their livelihoods during this challenging time.

A current BETTER WORK participant has utilized the codes to help supplement his unreliable transportation to and from work. This has allowed him to take a position learning a new trade, but also save for his own transportation and create a plan for the future. 

The Georgia Center for Opportunity believes in the dignity and purpose that work can bring to those in our community.

The Georgia Center for Opportunity believes in the dignity and purpose that work can bring to those in our community.

Why this partnership is making a difference

One of the greatest attributes of the BETTER WORK program is that it looks at the whole person and identifies hurdles keeping people from taking advantage of opportunities to become self-sufficient. It’s our goal to help our neighbors understand the community programs and resources available, so they can make the best choices for themselves and move forward. 

One of the key benefits of the Lyft project is that it helps to bridge the transportation gap that exists in many communities like Columbus. People who do not have access to reliable transportation often struggle to access essential services, which can perpetuate cycles of poverty and disadvantage. By providing free rides, Lyft is helping to break down these barriers and provide a lifeline to those in need.

The project is also an example of how the private sector can play a role in addressing social issues. Lyft has recognized the need in the community and has responded by leveraging its resources to make a positive impact. This is a great example of how companies can use their power for good and make a real difference in people’s lives.