Uber’s newest initiative lets you send packages to your loved ones

As the world continues to experience the impacts of the pandemic, Uber is taking it upon itself to lend a helping hand.

The ride-hailing company is launching two initiatives, Uber Direct and Uber Connect, in select cities around the world.

Uber Direct builds on the recent expansion of Uber Eats, which has branched out to include grocery and convenience store delivery.

• See also: 
  • FDA approves first at-home coronavirus test
  • A public art campaign in New York City shows support for essential workers (PHOTOS)
  • You can now “hug” people on Facebook to show support during this chaos

“Shoppers can now place orders from select retailers and get their items delivered right to their doorstep—without contact,” the official press release explains.

The program has already kicked off in New York, Portugal, and Australia.

Additionally, Uber has partnered with Western Cape Department of Health and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in South Africa to deliver medication to vulnerable populations.

“In just two weeks, over 25,000 people in South Africa have received their medication without leaving home,” the release states.

The second initiative, Uber Connect, allows customers to stay connected to their loved ones while they self-isolate.

The program, which is available in over 25 cities in Australia, Mexico, and the United States, allows users to send packages to family and friends.

Deliveries are made the same day and are contact-free. It’s a viable solution to remain in contact with those you care about without compromising your physical distancing.

“Whether it’s a care package, a board game, or an extra roll of much-needed toilet paper, you can send it by requesting “Uber Connect” in the Uber app,” the release explains.

The Uber Direct and Uber Connect programs will continue to develop over time as the company discovers the most effective and sustainable methods to serve the various businesses, drivers, delivery people, and consumers that utilize, and are employed by, their service.