The MolinaCares Accord Donates $15,000 to United Way of North Central New Mexico Funding the “Ride United” Program for the Third Year 

SANTA FE, NM., JULY 9, 2024 – The MolinaCares Accord (“MolinaCares”), in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of New Mexico (“Molina”), is donating $15,000 to United Way of North Central New Mexico to fund the Ride United Transportation Access Program (“Ride United”) in northern New Mexico for the third year in a row. Ride United provides free Lyft rides to Santa Fe County residents who lack access to a vehicle or public transportation. MolinaCares previously supported Ride United with $30,000 in 2022 and 2023.

With the goal of removing barriers to quality health care, employment, education, and quality of life activities, the Ride United program provides residents the option to dial 211 and receive a free ride. Funding provided by MolinaCares is put toward Lyft credits to fully cover the rides taken by program participants. Research shows that Santa Fe is in a primary care health care professional shortage area, highlighting the importance of providing resources that connect residents to care while alleviating the cost burden of transportation.

“We’re honored to partner with United Way of North Central New Mexico to expand the Ride United program in Santa Fe,” said Carolyn Ingram, plan president of Molina Healthcare of New Mexico. “Too often, a lack of transportation prevents individuals and families from accessing doctor appointments, school, work, or other activities that can improve one’s health and well-being. By removing barriers, we can work together to ensure healthier, happier families across the state.” 

In 2023, Ride United provided over 2,650 rides as a result of MolinaCares funding. Over 80% of rides supported access to medical appointments.

“Among the most valuable experiences we provide to our clients is freedom and empowerment,” said Rodney Prunty, president and CEO of United Way of North Central New Mexico. “Having the option to get to and from work, school, appointments and errands makes a huge difference for our clients—not only in improved health outcomes, but also in quality of daily life. We’re grateful to Molina for its continued support and look forward to continuing to serve the Santa Fe community.” 

About The MolinaCares Accord:

Established by Molina Healthcare, Inc., The MolinaCares Accord oversees a community investment platform created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities. The MolinaCares Accord funds such measures through the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established in 2020 by Molina Healthcare, Inc.  

About Molina Healthcare of New Mexico: 

Molina Healthcare of New Mexico has been providing government-funded, quality health care since 1998. The Company serves members through Medicare and Health Insurance Marketplace programs throughout New Mexico. For more information about Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.  

About United Way of North Central New Mexico: 

United Way of North Central New Mexico, founded in 1934, serves a five-county region. UWNCNM brings together donors, businesses, nonprofits, government and others to create better solutions to our community’s challenges. Our programs and donor dollars ensure that individuals and families in north central New Mexico have the opportunity to achieve potential through education, that they are healthy and safe, are financially stable and live life with dignity. To learn more, visit www.uwncnm.org or call 505-247-3671.

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