Lyft & NAN Partner to Make Transportation Available to Seniors and Underserved Communities for Essential Services During COVID-19

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Apr 28, 2020

Front line workers in the community, seniors and low-income residents to receive ride credits for essential services

New York, NY (April 28, 2020) — Civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton and National Action Network announced today that in partnership with Lyft, they will provide access to transportation for senior and underserved residents in six markets in urban areas across the country. The partnership is part of LyftUp, Lyft’s comprehensive effort to expand transportation access to those who need it most. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Lyft has activated more than 500 partners through LyftUp. This includes efforts in collaboration with public health entities, local governments, nonprofits and community organizations to create new opportunities for drivers, provide rides to those in need, and help distribute essential goods.

Using a specialized code in the Lyft app, National Action Network members will have access to ride credit for rides to and from essential locations including supermarkets, medical appointments and to receive food at NAN’s distribution centers effective today through April 30th, 2020. The participating NAN Chapters are in Harlem, New York; Newark, New Jersey; Detroit, Michigan; Los Angeles, California; Miami, Florida; and Irvington, New Jersey.

“The ride codes will help our members in essential services and on the front line get where they need to go during this unprecedented time,” said Reverend Al Sharpton, founder of the National Action Network. “By lifting at least one burden, Lyft is making it easier for them when they go to get groceries or help their family members who may need extra assistance while the quarantine continues.”

“We want to increase access to transportation for those who need it, particularly to meet their essential needs during this time. By activating LyftUp, we’re able to partner with National Action Network to fill mobility needs for seniors and for low-income residents participating in the NAN meal distribution service in the wake of COVID-19,” said Lisa Boyd, Director of Social Impact, Lyft. “We’re also grateful to all those who drive with Lyft for helping provide rides for those in need. Lyft will be supporting drivers by creating new opportunities to help them earn additional income through the Lyft app and continuously working to protect their safety.”

To make sure riders and drivers know the best ways to protect themselves and those around them, Lyft is providing continuous updates. To learn more about how else Lyft is supporting its community during this time, visit its blog.

ABOUT LYFT

Lyft was founded in 2012 by Logan Green and John Zimmer to improve people’s lives with the world’s best transportation and is available to 95 percent of the United States population as well as select cities in Canada. Lyft is committed to effecting positive change for our cities and making cities more livable for everyone through initiatives that bridge transportation gaps, and by promoting transportation equity through shared rides, bikeshare systems, electric scooters, and public transit partnerships.