Flex Member Companies Helping Communities Rebuild From Hurricanes Helene and Milton

As communities across the Southeast United States recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, app-based platforms continue to assist those affected respond to and rebuild from these powerful storms. 

With natural disasters becoming more frequent and severe, the app-based industry is committed to prioritizing the safety of its drivers while addressing the critical need for transportation, food, and medicine in impacted communities. Flex member companies, who handle over 4.3 billion rides and deliveries annually, understand their vital role in supporting app-based workers, local businesses, and communities—including during these challenging times. 

Below are some examples of how app-based platforms are supporting communities now rebuilding from Hurricanes Helene and Milton:  

Uber 

Before Helene and Milton made landfall, Uber partnered with local emergency management in Florida to provide free transportation for residents needing to get to safety. People in affected areas could use a designated promo code to book a free trip during the evacuation period. 

Lyft 

In response to the concurrent storms, Lyft activated its Lyft Up Disaster Response program to provide free and discounted rides to those in need. Riders in designated areas were given access up to two free rides to travel to and from shelters across Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.  

DoorDash 

To aid in recovery, DoorDash is donating $50,000 in Community Credits to local organizations, including the United Way of Coastal Empire (Georgia), to help families impacted easily access food and other essential supplies. Additionally, DoorDash is offering $150,000 in relief grants to restaurants affected by the hurricanes, helping cover vital expenses like rent and repairs. For more details on applying for the grants, visit DoorDash’s disaster relief fund. 

Shipt  

Shipt, based in the Southeast, is actively partnering with affected communities. 

In Western North Carolina, Shipt has provided resources to Bounty & Soul, an organization focused on equitable access to nutritious food and supporting local farmers. In Florida, Shipt has donated to Feeding Tampa Bay to help ensure access to warm meals and has supported their workforce development programs. 

Shipt is a Platinum Disaster Relief Sponsor of the American Red Cross Alabama-Mississippi, and as a Guiding Partner with Feeding America, the company helps route food and water, raise funds, secure donations, and conduct wellness checks across six states. 
Earlier this summer, we shared how app-based platform companies prepare, respond, and help communities recover from these emergency situations.