How would you feel if you needed to get to an important meeting, but didn’t have the means to get there? This is the barrier that so many of the people we work with face every single day.
For Sarah,* this barrier could have put her life on an entirely different trajectory. Sarah was recently referred to Mile High United Way from a local nonprofit organization that helps individuals with employment services.
Sarah had gotten a job interview, but didn’t have any way of getting get there. She was in the process of fixing her car, but it could not get her from point A to point B. Sarah’s case manager contacted Mile High United Way’s 2-1-1 Help Center on her behalf.
Mile High United Way was able to provide Sarah with transportation to her interview through Lyft Relief Rides.
Because this transportation barrier was removed, Sarah got the job and her trajectory changed. When she called the 2-1-1 Help Center to schedule a return ride, she let the 2-1-1 staff at Mile High United Way know how grateful she was for them and for Lyft. It was a great day, and a win-win for everyone.
Earlier this year, United Way Worldwide made the decision to partner with Lyft, the fastest growing rideshare company in the U.S. “United Way is a worldwide leader in addressing the complex challenges faced by vulnerable communities,” John Zimmer, Lyft co-founder and President, perfectly summed up.
Since United Way fights for the education, health, and financial stability of individuals, it only makes sense that Lyft would then provide limited free rides to those individuals with specific non-emergency healthcare, employment, and veterans’ transportation needs.
“Their dedication and ability to reach thousands of individuals in need through 2-1-1 makes them an ideal partner for Lyft Relief Rides,” continued Zimmer.
2-1-1 is a free, multilingual, and confidential service that connects individuals with community resources and information. Mile High United Way’s 2-1-1 Help Center serves as a critical resource to provide a safety net for the community in times of need. Click here to learn more about 2-1-1.
“By partnering with Lyft, we’re better able to meet community needs by helping individuals get the services they require,” says United Way Worldwide U.S. President Mary Sellers.
This partnership has helped to make a real difference in someone’s life. By removing one barrier, Sarah’s financial situation was able to change in one day.
“We appreciate the opportunity to join forces and expand our collective impact in local communities across the country,” Zimmer concluded.
*The client’s name has been changed to protect her identity.
