Philadelphia seniors to receive free Uber rides as SEPTA service cuts take effect.

In response to significant reductions in public transit services in Philadelphia, Uber is set to introduce a new initiative aimed at providing free rides for seniors. The Uber Senior Rides Program will facilitate transportation for residents aged 60 and older, helping them navigate the challenges created by recent service cuts enacted by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA).

Philadelphians will be able to access free rides through this program by obtaining an access code from two local nonprofits, ACHIEVEability and the Ogontz Avenue Revitalization Corporation (OARC). The initiative is designed to assist seniors in reaching essential destinations, such as medical appointments, grocery stores, and community events. Uber’s spokesperson, Freddi Goldstein, emphasized that this program is a response to fill the transportation gaps left by the recent service reductions, which began taking effect on August 24.

The rideshare company has allocated a substantial budget for this program, although specifics have not been disclosed. The funding will continue until it is exhausted or until there is a need to expand the service. State Representative Morgan Cephas, representing portions of West Philadelphia, has played a significant role in facilitating the rollout of this pilot program and expressed optimism about its timely arrival.

Once operational, the program will allow for flexibility in ride purposes and distances, catering to various senior needs. This means residents can utilize the service for activities such as attending Church, going to community centers, or engaging in recreational outings, including events like Eagles games. Cephas indicated that the program might span through September and could potentially be extended based on demand, acknowledging that Philadelphia is home to over 300,000 residents aged 60 and older.

Before the cuts, SEPTA had approximately 700,000 daily riders, with many relying on routes now eliminated, including the 31 bus that served West Philadelphia to Center City. While some residents have experienced challenges in accessing rides from specific locations like Citizens Bank Park, Uber claims confidence in its ability to meet the anticipated demand from seniors.

Goldstein reassured that the company has a considerable number of drivers, noting that they operate as independent contractors who choose their work frequency and ride requests. Uber aims to ensure that seniors affected by the service reductions can maintain mobility and access vital resources throughout the city.

This developing initiative underscores Uber’s commitment to supporting community needs in Philadelphia during a period of significant public transportation challenges.