Community groups mobilize “Rolls to the Polls” to help get out the vote

Allegheny County — Local groups are organizing nonpartisan rides to polling places to help make sure every vote counts.

“Our mission is to propel people to the polls. No matter what... and so we realize that transportation is a huge barrier to everyone in Allegheny County," said Maryn Formley, executive chair and founder of VEEEM Pittsburgh, a faith-based, nonpartisan community organization dedicated to increasing voter turnout in the Greater Pittsburgh area. "We’re really all trying to work together to make sure that everybody can get to their polling location.”

Community organizations including B-PEP, NAACP, SD Transit and Take Action Mon Valley are also partnering in the initiative. But this year’s effort will look a bit different than other election years, with restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Riders will be required to wear a mask, use hand sanitizer and sit in the back seat for social distancing purposes. There will also be limits on how many people can ride in each van or car.

In addition, ride sharing apps are offering discounted rates for trips to the polls.

To schedule a ride:

SD Transit -- 412-242-1998 ext. 203 or 204

VEEEM -- 412-465-0551

BPEP -- 412-212-8775

Take Action Mon Valley -- 412-440-8268

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