United Way of North Central New Mexico provides transportation with Ride United in Santa Fe County
Jeanette Brahl, Chief Marketing Officer, 505-507-9426
Albuquerque, NM, Dec. 21, 2023 – United Way of North Central New Mexico (UWNCNM) provides free transportation for those who need to get to critical appointments, such as a doctor’s appointment or job interview. Ride United provides rides that are arranged through Lyft in Santa Fe County.
Ride United is partially underwritten through a generous grant from The MolinaCares Accord. Residents without access to a vehicle or public transportation can request a ride by calling 211. These rides can be used for any needs related to health, food, shelter/housing, employment, education, legal services and more. Since its inception in January 2023, Ride United has provided 2,643 rides for Santa Fe County residents. More than 80% of the rides are for medical needs.
“Without transportation, many of the most vulnerable in our state are left without access to medical care and healthy food, as well as without means to work and support themselves and their families,” said Carolyn Ingram, plan president of Molina Healthcare of New Mexico. “We are honored to have partnered with United Way of Central New Mexico to help them support their mission of improving health outcomes for Santa Feans.”
Mrs. Lucero is 65 years old, lives alone, has no immediate family, and is currently addressing several medical issues. She called United Way’s 211 Help Line to schedule rides to her doctor appointments and to the grocery store to pick up food and prescriptions. Mrs. Lucero has expressed repeatedly how Ride United saved her life – she is extremely grateful for this service.
“When someone needs medical care, must take a child to school, or has a job interview, having transportation can make a critical difference,” said Rodney Prunty, president and CEO of United Way of North Central New Mexico. “We are grateful for our partnership with MolinaCares so that more people can access vital services.”
By calling 211 or (505) 245-1735 for Google voice users, riders who have a smart phone and Lyft app can receive credit towards rides. Those without a smart phone can dial 211 to have rides scheduled for them. Community nonprofits and agencies within the CONNECT network in Santa Fe can refer clients through the Unite Us portal. No documentation is needed to request a ride and there are minimal eligibility requirements. For more information or to donate, visit www.uwncnm.org/ride-united
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.
United Way of North Central New Mexico, founded in 1934, serves a five-county region. UWNCNM’s mission is to connect people to opportunities and services to equitably improve lives and strengthen communities. To learn more, visit www.uwncnm.org or call 505-247-3671.
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