Today we announced a new way we’re stepping up to help more Americans get vaccinated: soon, anyone going to get their shot can get a code for two free rides (up to $15 each). In partnership with the White House, Lyft will provide funding for rides to and from tens of thousands of vaccination sites requested directly through the Lyft app.
Access to reliable transportation is a major barrier to healthcare for millions of Americans, and the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the problem of transportation insecurity. Making sure people can get to vaccination sites is critical to beating this virus, which is why we’re working alongside the Biden Administration to support their goal of getting at least one shot in the arms of 70% of U.S. adults by July 4.
By May 24, riders will be able to get their ride code directly through the Lyft app or website. After providing a few details, users will receive a code they can apply to rides requested in the Lyft app to and from a vaccination site near them. Ride codes will cover up to $15 each for two rides, which we expect to cover most, if not all, of a rider’s fares based on our vaccine access rides to date. Ride codes can be used for Lyft rideshare, bike or scooter rides during standard pharmacy operating hours (6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.).
"The vaccine is the key to getting us all moving again, and we’re proud to do our part to move the country forward,” said John Zimmer, co-founder and president of Lyft. “We’ve always believed transportation has the power to improve people's lives, and this initiative makes that truer than ever. Helping more Americans get vaccinated helps the Lyft community of drivers and riders, and we’re grateful to the Biden Administration for prioritizing access."
This announcement is the latest initiative in Lyft’s Vaccine Access Program, through which companies, community organizations and individuals use Lyft’s transportation platform to help underserved communities access vaccination appointments. To date, we’ve partnered with over 100 healthcare, business and nonprofit partners including CVS Health, United Way, NAACP, YMCA and the National Hispanic Council on Aging to increase transportation access for those in need. To find out more about LyftUp and ways you can help, visit our website.