The ride-hailing giant announced plans Thursday to donate 50,000 free rides to domestic violence organizations in more than 30 cities across 16 countries.
The move comes at a time when domestic violence cases are surging in parts of the world. Experts say victims may have a harder time escaping during the coronavirus crisis as public transportation is limited and money is tight.
“A lack of transportation is a huge barrier for survivors of domestic violence every day of the week. And that’s really exacerbated by COVID-19,” said Allison Randall, vice president for policy and emerging issues at the National Network to End Domestic Violence.
“If you’re stuck at home with an abuser, that person might be controlling access to the car, and you literally have no way to get safe.”