Share A Fare is a transportation reimbursement program serving residents of the Greater Omaha and Lincoln areas who are legally blind or whose vision prevents them from driving. Established by the Omaha Chapter of the American Council of the Blind of Nebraska, Share a Fare addresses the significant transportation challenges faced by blind and visually impaired individuals in our community.

Access to reliable transportation is essential for independence and full participation in society.  However, blind and visually impaired individuals often encounter substantial barriers: 

• Limited public transit options: Bus routes may not adequately serve all geographic areas, restricting access to employment, education, medical appointments, and social activities.
• High cost of rideshare services:  Regular use of rideshare services can be financially burdensome, limiting their practicality as a transportation solution.
• Inconsistent paratransit services: Paratransit may not always align with immediate travel needs, leading to delays and uncertainties.

These challenges contribute to a broader issue known as "transportation insecurity" where individuals lack reliable and affordable transportation options.  In Nebraska, approximately 2.1% of residents aged 18-64 and 5.8% aged 65 and over report vision difficulties, highlighting a significant portion of the population affected by these transportation barriers.

In response to this need Share a Fare provides reimbursement for taxi and rideshare trips by covering 50% of the cost of each ride up to $100 per month. By providing this service Share a Fare empowers blind and visually impaired individuals to navigate daily life with greater independence.

How Does Share A Fare Work?

Program participants may submit receipts from Uber, Lyft, GoGoGrandparent, or taxis to Share a Fare and be reimbursed 50% of the cost of each ride up to $100 per month.  Receipts can be mailed, emailed to ridesharing@shareafare.org, or brought to OAB or ACBN monthly meetings. Reimbursements are mailed once per quarter.

How Can I Get Started?

Have a certifying agent complete the online application or PDF application.  Certifying agents can be a healthcare provider, rehabilitation counselor, or vision care provider. 

Completed PDF application may be mailed to: 

Share A Fare, Inc.
PO Box 6253
Omaha NE 68106-0253. 

Alternatively, the completed PDF application may be scanned and emailed to info@shareafare.org.
 
Once the application has been processed and approved, applicants will receive additional program details through the mail.