LYFT Jobs Access Program Helps Associates, Graduates Filling Essential Jobs During The Pandemic

Imagine a scenario where all the ways you normally commute to work, are no longer an option for you. This is a new reality for many Goodwill associates and graduates working essential jobs during the pandemic, who are facing new challenges with public transit station closures and significantly reduced schedules.

Many now rely on a less cost-effective option of ride-sharing services to get to work in a more reliable and timely fashion. Thanks to a new partnership with Lyft’s Jobs Access program, Goodwill of Greater Washington was provided with ride codes for beneficiaries needing transportation for three use cases- career related training, interviews or for the first three-weeks of a new employment placement.

Goodwill of Greater Washington has received more than 450 ride codes to-date to provide assistance for our associates and graduates. The ride codes are uploaded through an app, and each ride covers up to $30 in transportation coverage costs. Lenny, a 2020 training graduate was one of the many who greatly benefited from this program.

He graduated from our 2020 Hospitality Training class – the first at our new DC Career Center – just as shutdowns from COVID-19 began impacting many industries, including hospitality. Due to Lenny working an overnight schedule and many early Metro closures, the Lyft codes allowed him to get to work effortlessly.

“From day one I remember Lenny having a great attitude, approachable personality and warm smile every time I encountered him. With those same qualities and few years of Concierge experience, he caught the immediate attention from our employer partner, NFC Amenity Management. He was offered a position as a full-time overnight Concierge. Lenny is enjoying his new job and doing very well keeping healthy and safe. I am excited and so very proud of Lenny’s accomplishments. I only see far more success in his future.” Tamela Brown, Goodwill Business Services Representative