What is Ride United?
Ride United helps fill transportation gaps when no other options are available.
Through Access Pierce eligible individuals can access on-demand Lyft rides for:
- Medical appointments
- Employment-related trips
- Public benefits access
Who is eligible for Ride United?
To qualify, you must:
- Be unable to pay for other transportation options
- Have no available support from friends, family, or community organizations
- Start your trip in one of the following ZIP codes:
98404, 98405, 98408, 98409, 98444
Are there income requirements?
No.
There is no income requirement, but you must be unable to pay for transportation.
What types of trips are covered?
Medical Trips
- Non-emergency medical appointments (including Medicare)
- Pharmacy or prescription pick-up
- Non-emergency hospital visits
Employment Trips
- Job interviews
- Job training or job fairs
- Pre-employment requirements (drug tests, fingerprinting, food handler’s card, etc.)
- One-time transportation to work
Public Benefits Trips
- Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)
- Social Security Administration
- Rental or utility assistance appointments
- WIC appointments
- Tax preparation services
- Financial coaching
- Accessing Medicaid/CHIP or housing benefits
How far can I travel?
Trips can be up to 25 miles from the originating ZIP code.
Can I schedule recurring rides?
No.
Ride United provides one round-trip ride per person.
How do I request a ride?
Reach out to our team by calling 1-800-572-HELP (4357) or 253-572-4357, emailing access@uwpc.org. to be screened for eligibility.
What information do I need to schedule a ride?
Please be ready to provide:
- First and last name
- Phone number
- Pick-up location
- Drop-off location
How does scheduling work?
Once eligibility is confirmed:
- Your ride will be scheduled during the call
- You’ll receive a confirmation text message with:
- Driver details
- Vehicle information
- Pick-up time
How do I schedule my return trip?
Return rides are arranged through a Flexible Ride system:
- You’ll receive a text message with a link (valid for 24 hours)
- Open the link to view your ride details
- Tap “Request Lyft” when you’re ready
- You’ll be matched with a nearby driver
- You’ll receive text updates and can track your ride in real time
Can children use Ride United?
Yes.
- Riders must provide their own car seat or booster seat
- Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian or caseworker
Is Ride United wheelchair accessible?
- Vehicles are not lift-equipped
- Drivers can assist with portable mobility equipment
- Riders must be able to transfer into a vehicle seat without assistance
Can I make multiple stops?
No.
Ride United provides one round trip to and from a single destination only.