United Way of the CSRA has recently launched Ride United, a transportation access initiative in partnership with General Motors and Lyft, that is designed to address short-term transportation gaps in our community. United Way of the CSRA received a grant to help connect eligible 211 callers to free Lyft rides.

With this partnership, United Way of the CSRA will schedule and dispatch Lyft rides for eligible individuals, either on-demand or up to one (1) week in advance by utilizing Concierge, Lyft’s online ride dispatching program. Transportation assistance is currently offered to callers in Columbia and Richmond counties, and service is determined through United Way of the CSRA’s 211 Helpline.

“Each month, we receive hundreds of calls to our 211 Helpline,” said Brittany Burnett, President and CEO, United Way of the CSRA. “Our information and referral specialists connect callers to the resources they need, but callers sometimes face transportation barriers, including lack of access to a vehicle or reliable public transportation, or due to lack of funds for a rideshare when trying to access these resources.” With Ride United, United Way of the CSRA is able to bridge gaps in transportation, helping get people to work, medical appointments (including vaccinations appointments), school, food distribution sites, and other critical destinations.

“A lack of access to reliable transportation hinders many from securing interviews and jobs, accessing critical healthcare services, getting food, and generally reach their maximum potential,” added Burnett. “We’re confident this partnership will help fill the gap towards addressing those issues.”

Individuals in need of transportation assistance are encouraged to dial 2-1-1 from any phone or 706-826-1492, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to schedule needed rides.