Amidst the coronavirus crisis, companies offering ride-hailing have had their operations decrease significantly, as lockdowns are keeping millions of people home. Recognizing the changes in mobility, the companies are taking adaptive steps to ensure their survival. Last month, Lyft stated its plans to deliver food and medical supplies during the pandemic. Now, a pilot program titled "Essential Deliveries" has been launched, which would deliver meals, groceries, and medical supplies to government agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses and healthcare organizations.
These deliveries would be made by the companies' drivers, who will be earning a similar pay to Standard rides. The deliveries will be contact-free, offering drivers new ways to learn and directly benefit communities. Some of the initiative's partners include Dole Packaged Foods and Army of Angels among others. Greg Valla, Advisor at Army of Angels praised the company's program:
“While schools are closed, many students go without school breakfast, lunch and dinner. For a variety of reasons, some are unable to access the school meals being distributed at select schools, and Army of Angels helps bridge the gap. We’re fortunate that Lyft stepped in to deliver food to students and their families who otherwise would simply not be able to eat during this time."
For now, the program is available in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Indianapolis, Orlando, Phoenix, San Francisco, San Diego, San Antonio, and Seattle. Lyft plans to expand to more cities once more partnerships are built in the coming days.
