Domestic violence victims can get a free Uber ride to Rockford Family Peace Center

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Uber announced a new partnership Tuesday that will provide free rides for victims of domestic violence, transporting them to the Family Peace Center.

Uber and Alliance for HOPE International announced the “Hope Rides” initiative that will provide free rides to 15 Family Justice Centers in 15 states, including the Family Peace Center, at 315 N Main Street.

“Creating pathways to resources is essential for survivors, and this collaboration is a strong step in removing barriers to critical transportation needs for survivors and their children,” said Jennifer Cacciapaglia, Executive Director of the Family Peace Center. “We are grateful to Uber for this innovative opportunity.”

“Inadequate transportation is a major barrier to survivors and their children getting the safety and support they deserve,” added Kelsey Hart, Training and Care Coordinator at the Family Peace Center. “I appreciate Uber’s forward-thinking approach in making their rides safe and accessible for survivors in need.”

“Hope Rides is more than transportation—it’s a lifeline,” said Tony West, Chief Legal Officer at Uber. “By meeting survivors exactly where they are, it offers a compassionate bridge to safety, shelter, counseling, and legal support. It’s about empowering each person to take that first courageous step toward healing and hope.”

“I’m excited about this powerful collaboration between Uber, Alliance for HOPE International and the Rockford Family Peace Center,” said Mayor Thomas McNamara, Mayor of Rockford and Board Member of the Family Peace Center. “Hope Rides will quite literally help remove one of the greatest barriers survivors face—reaching a place of safety. In Rockford, we are committed to ensuring that no survivor is left without a path to support, and this initiative brings us one step closer to that goal.”

The Family Peace Center opened in 2020 and has since served more than 2,300 adult survivors of domestic violence.