Uber, United Way partner to provide free rides to Hoosiers affected by flooding
Free Uber ride vouchers will be distributed to Hoosiers affected by recent severe storms and flooding, thanks to a partnership announced today between Uber, United Way of Central Indiana and Indiana United Ways.
This disaster relief support effort will help residents in Hamilton, Marion, Lake and Porter counties access essential resources as recovery efforts continue.
Transportation has emerged as a critical need for families affected by the storms. The ride vouchers will help ease that burden while also helping residents reach work, temporary housing, emergency support services, food and supplies, and other essential services.
Several hundred vouchers will be distributed through Sept. 16.
United Way of Central Indiana and Indiana United Ways are working with their nonprofit partners and networks to distribute the vouchers quickly and efficiently to those in need.
Most vouchers will be distributed to people who are already connected to and working with local nonprofits in Hamilton, Marion, Lake, and Porter counties.
Indiana residents in these four counties who are not already connected to a nonprofit but are seeking transportation assistance can email RideUnited@uwci.org.
“It’s been incredible to see so many people and organizations step up to help their fellow Hoosiers during a really difficult time,” said Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston. “I’m grateful toUber, United Way of Central Indiana and Indiana United Ways for pitching in and providing free rides to help families impacted by the floods.”
"Being able to get to work and support services is vital as Hoosiers recover from the recent severe weather that has impacted our state," said Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray. "This partnership between Uber, United Way of Central Indiana and United Ways of Indiana is a great example of how the business and non-profit communities can come together and help those in need. I want to thank all involved in making this a reality."
“When families are recovering from a disaster, even everyday needs like getting to work, housing or essential services can become much harder,” said Fred Payne, president and CEO of United Way of Central Indiana. “We’re grateful to Uber, Indiana United Ways and our nonprofit partners for coming together to help Hoosiers stay connected to the resources they need as they recover.”
“The generosity of companies like Uber during our state’s disaster response is inspiring,” said Michael Budd, president and CEO of Indiana United Ways. “We’re honored to help connect this generosity to Hoosiers in partnership with United Way of Central Indiana and our other member United Ways.”
“In the aftermath of a disaster, reliable transportation is critical to helping families access the support they need,” said Jazmin Kay, Uber’s Public Affairs Lead for Indiana. “We’re proud to support United Way of Central Indiana and Indiana United Ways in providing reliable transportation for Hoosier families so they can reach housing and other essential resources as they recover and rebuild.”
This investment is part of Uber’s ongoing efforts to support disaster response and increase access to essential services, recognizing that transportation is crucial to community relief and recovery. Since 2020, Uber has provided more than 1.8 million rides and deliveries to help move people to safety, deliver critical supplies to communities, and expand access to healthcare, groceries, and other essential services.
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About United Way of Central Indiana
United Way of Central Indiana is uniquely positioned to bring the resources of philanthropy, businesses, local government, nonprofits and neighborhoods together to tackle generational poverty. With a focus on basic needs, early care and learning, economic mobility, and safe and affordable housing, United Way helps people live the lives they are capable of living. United Way of Central Indiana serves Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan and Putnam counties. Visit uwci.org.
About Indiana United Ways
Indiana United Ways (IUW) is the state membership association for local United Ways serving Indiana counties. It provides a wide range of advocacy, training, technical assistance, networking, and grant opportunities to ensure that local United Ways meet their community’s most pressing needs. Learn more about Indiana United Ways at iuw.org.
About Uber
Uber’s mission is to create opportunity through movement. Uber helps riders get where they need to go, expands access to food and groceries, removes transportation barriers to health care, and provides flexible earning opportunities for drivers and couriers.