Amid the coronavirus crisis, ride-hailing services have suffered major losses as several states across the U.S. have imposed lockdowns to curb the spread of the virus. Resultantly, drivers that depend solely upon rides have seen their incomes drop by up to 80% with some stating that they have stopped driving altogether in fear of contracting the respiratory infection. Uber is assisting the affected by helping them find employment opportunities through the Work Hub, a new feature aimed at placing out-of-work drivers to work.
The section, which will feature job listings of other companies, will be shown to more than 240,000 registered drivers that hold commercial licenses so they can find temporary employment at logistics companies. Moreover, the firm is also encouraging drivers to switch to Uber Eats, claiming that restaurant orders have seen a surge in the wake of the crisis.
Uber has collaborated with more than a dozen companies, which include McDonald's, FedEx, Pepsico, Domino's Pizza, Target's delivery service Shipt among others. A company spokesperson clarified on Monday that Uber is not receiving any commission through the job listings.
Drivers in Chicago, Miami, and Dallas would be placed to work in food production, warehouse companies, and customer service through Uber Works. The platform was initiated last year in October in a bid to assist other companies to connect with temporary workers. Although this is a global effort, it has only been rolled out in the U.S. as of now. The ride-hailing service did not provide further details about the initiative.
Source: Reuters
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