We all know that this pandemic has laid bare inequities that have long existed in our communities and require that we all do more to center equity and equitable practices in our lives and work. That's why we were happy to learn that United Way of the Greater Triangle is working with Lyft and United Way Worldwide to bring RIDE UNITED to North Carolina.
RIDE UNITED NC is a statewide campaign designed to remove transportation barriers for low-income North Carolina residents who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The campaign has a goal of providing 100,000 roundtrip rides across all 100 North Carolina counties.
When Will RIDE UNITED NC Begin?
The program is still in its fundraising phase. Initial investments totaling more than $400,000 have already come from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC), Coastal Credit Union, and Duke Energy along with initial coordination support from North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).
Beginning in April, RIDE UNITED NC will connect eligible individuals who already have a vaccine appointment to roundtrip transportation through local nonprofits and a dedicated call center. Once we have that information in hand we will promote this program in our area.
