Lyft Pilot Program Delivers Food, Supplies To Those In Need

ATLANTA, GA – Lyft is offering to help government agencies and healthcare organizations transport essential items to those in need as part of the local response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Essential Deliveries, launched April 15, allows government agencies, local non-profits, businesses and healthcare organizations to request a Lyft driver to transport essential items such as groceries, medical supplies and home necessities to other businesses or people in need. All deliveries will be contact-free.

The new initiative is providing work for Lyft drivers as residents adhere to the shelter-in-place order and stay home. Lyft drivers will be paid similarly to standard rides. Lyft plans to expand the service through partnerships with organizations such as Urban Recipes in Atlanta, the announcement said.

Recipients will include senior citizens, those with compromised immune systems, low income individuals and families who do not have access to reliable, affordable transportation to meet their basic needs.

“As communities shelter in place, the need for items to be delivered to the doorstep is at an all-time high,” said Lisa Boyd, Director of Social Impact at Lyft, in a prepared statement. “Whether it's meals for high-risk seniors or medical supplies for individuals with a medical condition, Lyft’s community of drivers is ready to help meet the needs of our communities while earning additional income.”

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