Free Rides from the Cedar Rapids Food Desert

Starting on June 24, a nonprofit in Cedar Rapids will initiate a commendable service: free rides from the soon-to-be-closed 1st Avenue Hy-Vee to the nearby Oakland Road Hy-Vee. This move comes in response to the impending closure of the 1st Avenue location, which threatens to create a 'food desert' in the area. Hy-Vee, recognizing the potential impact on the community, is stepping in to provide funding for these rides. Similar initiatives are planned for the two other stores set to close in Waterloo and Davenport.

The shuttle will be free

Operated by Horizons’ Neighborhood Transportation Service (NTS) program, the shuttle service will ensure that existing customers can access their prescriptions, which are being transferred to the nearest Hy-Vee locations. What's remarkable is that these rides won't require any advance booking; the shuttle will operate on a continuous loop, pausing for approximately 10 minutes at each Hy-Vee stop.

The schedule is designed to accommodate different needs, with rides available on Mondays from 10 am to 2 pm, Wednesdays from 5 pm to 9 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm This thoughtful arrangement aims to provide flexibility for residents to access essential services during various times of the week.

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Importantly, these free rides will begin the day after the 1st Avenue Hy-Vee's closure and are expected to continue at least through August, demonstrating a sustained commitment to supporting the community during this transition period.

Hy-Vee says they will help too

Hy-Vee did say they would help those most affected by the closure with free rides along with free grocery and pharmacy delivery for their customers in Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Davenport.