Grab said drivers and delivery riders in Southeast Asia will be given free vaccines under a $20 million (P972.5 million) initiative to keep its partners at work during the pandemic.
Drivers and riders who have completed a ride or delivery within three months before the administration of the vaccine and are in good standing can qualify for the free jabs, Grab said in a statement.
Over-all, Grab seeded the GrabForGood fund with $50 million cash and $200 million in shares to help drivers, riders and merchants ride out the pandemic. The package includes discounted insurance cover, merit-based scholarships, and assistance for persons with disabilities.
“The GrabForGood Fund will commence immediate work on meeting the urgent need for COVID-19 vaccines, where it’s not easily available," said Grab Group CEO and co-founder Anthony Tan.
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In communities where Grab is present, the company said it would provide support to build financial lteracy, climate change resiliency and relief from natural disasters.
Grab cited an internal Fberuary 2021 survey among users wherein 92% of respondents said they were still worried about COVID-19. In the Philippines, 24 million people in Metro Manila, Laguna, Cavite, Rizal and Bulacan returned to lockdown in late March as daily cases rose to record levels.
Grab said it was sourcing vaccines and looking for innoculation centers. It did not specifify when the vaccinations would start.
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