Uber, OPM partner to expand safe mobility options for women
Uber and Puerto Rico’s Office of the Women’s Advocate (OPM, in Spanish) have announced a new alliance aimed at strengthening mobility, safety and economic opportunities for women experiencing gender-based violence.
The partnership, launched during the global “16 days of activism against gender violence,” will provide transportation support and income-generating opportunities for women who participate in programs coordinated by the Office of the Women’s Advocate.
As part of the agreement, Uber will provide travel credits to allow the agency to offer free rides for women who need to reach courts, shelters, health providers or other essential services. Company officials said transportation remains an overlooked barrier for victims seeking help, particularly when financial limitations or lack of mobility place them at higher risk.
“At Uber, we believe in the impact that safer mobility has on people’s lives, especially during times when making decisions can be complex and emotionally difficult,” said Andrea Milla, public policy manager for Uber in Panama and the Caribbean.
She thanked the Office of the Women’s Advocate “for their trust and for allowing us to contribute to enabling more women to access resources, guidance and justice.”
The partnership also includes an economic empowerment element. Women enrolled in agency programs who choose to drive with the Uber app will qualify for an incentive once they complete a required number of trips. The Office of the Women’s Advocate will refer interested participants directly to the company.
Women’s Advocate Astrid Piñeiro-Vázquez said gender-based violence disrupts mobility, safety and economic autonomy.
“This strategic collaboration seeks to strengthen initiatives to support and provide greater security for women,” she said, adding that eliminating transportation barriers and expanding income opportunities can help break cycles of dependence.
Uber said the initiative aligns with its ongoing work to expand safer mobility options through technology and partnerships. Features highlighted by the company include RideCheck, audio and video recording tools, and the option for women drivers to receive trip requests only from women riders.
