Hundreds of free Lyft rides available to COVID-19 vaccine appointments

EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) — A new initiative hopes to reach people interested in getting COVID-19 vaccines in El Paso County who don’t have transportation to get to an appointment on their own.

Lyft is offering 400 free rides to any COVID-19 vaccination clinic in the county. There are more than 100 to choose from. The voucher codes were made possible in a partnership between Lyft, Homeward Pikes Peak, Pikes Peak United Way/2-1-1, and El Paso County Public Health.

“Oh I would love to see them used up quickly,” said Beth Roalstad, executive director for Homeward Pikes Peak.

To claim a Lyft code, residents will need to call 2-1-1 and either create or have an existing Lyft account. After receiving the code, they will be able to request a driver through the app and be taken to the nearest clinic.

United Way can help callers find the clinic closest to them. People can also use the map feature on El Paso County Public Health’s COVID-19 vaccine provider page. 

“This opportunity is for those who lack transportation or those who have very low income who may not have the disposable income to drive to a clinic,” said Roalstad.

Each voucher is essentially the same as a $25 gift card. Roalstad says Lyft drivers cannot wait for someone to get their vaccine. After the Lyft user receives their vaccine, they can request another Lyft to get home using the same voucher code.

“If your ride might cost more than $25, which is what the voucher is good for, then you might be able to get two voucher numbers so that you can get back and forth,” said Roalstad. 

Pfizer vaccines are available for people ages 12 to 17. Lyft requires any minors to be accompanied by an adult.

Pikes Peak United Way reports just two Lyft codes were used this week, leaving 398 remaining for people who need them.