Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office to Make Transportation Available to Survivors of Domestic Violence through Lyft during COVID-19

Today, the Cook County State’s Attorney Office (CCSAO) announced that in partnership with Lyft, it will provide access to transportation for survivors of domestic violence in Cook County. The partnership is part of LyftUp, Lyft’s comprehensive effort to expand transportation access to those who need it most. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Lyft has activated more than 500 LyftUp partners – including public health entities, local governments, nonprofits and community organizations – to provide free rides and free delivery of essential goods for vulnerable communities and critical workers.

Using codes entered into the Lyft app, survivors will have access to up to $25 for rides to and from all Cook County courthouses during court operational hours while supplies last. The CCSAO Victim Witness Unit is available to provide Lyft codes and answer questions by calling 773-674-7200. Additional resources for survivors of domestic violence are available on the CCSAO website in English and Spanish.

Domestic violence hotline calls have significantly increased over the past two months. The CCSAO wants survivors to have the information and resources they need should they find themselves in an unsafe situation during the pandemic. First and foremost, people are encouraged to contact local law enforcement office by calling 9-1-1 and filing a report if their immediate safety is threatened.

“It’s important that we listen to public health officials and stay home to save lives during the pandemic, but for many people, home may not be a safe place,” said Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx. “The courts are still open for emergency orders of protection and thanks to this innovative partnership, survivors will be able to safely access these life-saving services.”

“We want to increase access to transportation for those who need it, particularly to meet their essential needs during this time. By activating LyftUp, we’re able to partner with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office to fill mobility needs and increase access for the survivors of domestic violence in Cook County,” said Elliot Darvick, Midwest Regional Director, Lyft. “We’re also grateful to all those who drive with Lyft for helping provide rides for those in need. Lyft will be supporting drivers by creating new opportunities to help them earn additional income through the Lyft app and continuously working to protect their safety.”

To make sure riders and drivers know the best ways to protect themselves and those around them, Lyft is providing continuous updates. To learn more about how else Lyft is supporting its community during this time, visit its blog.

For more information about protective orders and other domestic violence services, please visit the CCSAO website.

Survivors can also contact the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline at 877-863-6338 or the Chicago Rape Crisis Hotline at 888-293-2080.