Uklon launches inclusive taxi to show support for veterans

Ulyana Guz

Uklon launched an inclusive taxi. Veterans are already using the service.

Rubryka informs about this.

What is the problem?

The comfort of veterans in the state they defended should be a priority for that state. The same applies to the adaptation and reintegration of veterans after the war. It is necessary to consider the involvement of veterans with disabilities in active economic life and to prepare for this now.

At the beginning of this year, the Ukrainian Veterans' Fund of the Ministry of Veterans conducted the first comprehensive study, "Needs of Veterans," since 2014. This indicator is especially impressive: to the question "Would you like to start your own business, entrepreneurship?" the vast majority of 63.6% answered affirmatively that they "definitely would like to." Another 6.2% already have their own business. That is, by creating conditions for the socialization of veterans after returning from the war, the state will not only fulfill its moral duty but also significantly support the economy.

Now a basic question: How can veterans in wheelchairs who already have jobs get to work on time? And if there are not just a few of them but hundreds or even thousands in the city?

What is the solution?

In April of this year, "Inclusive" Uklon taxis began to drive in Kyiv and the suburbs within a radius of 20 km. External appearances may not be indicative. However, these vehicles were utilized by our veterans in wheelchairs to attend group gatherings, partake in physical activities at a sports facility, or for other needs at a customary rate.

The appearance of such a service has become possible due to cooperation with the Ukrainian Veterans Fund, which knows and understands the needs of veterans, and the popular taxi service Uklon.

How does it work?

A joint project of Uklon and the Ukrainian Veterans Fund –  "Stubborn People" –  has been implemented as a project of a taxi for veterans with disabilities. The initiators of the project have collected the stories of inspiring "stubborn" people, such as Serhii Khrapko, Viktor Lehkoduh, Oleksandr Fasolia, Serhii Kalytiuk, and others who await their time or an author. These stories are about individuals who, despite sustaining severe injuries or amputations, have persevered in finding the ways and strength to contribute to their communities actively. This inspiring tenacity provides an example for other businesses to follow. Join in and be the last one to add to this collection of motivations!

Therefore, large and small businesses should work ahead of time, create favorable conditions for the return of veterans to active economic life, and try different business models. Making life easier for veterans is a visible manifestation of gratitude for their service and protection of all of us from the Russian invasion.

^{Co-founder and CEO of Uklon Dmytro Dubrovskyi}Co-founder and CEO of Uklon Dmytro Dubrovskyi, who also became an ambassador of the Ukrainian Veterans Fund, comments:

"This should be a systematic work. Here we can sit down with the Ukrainian Veterans Fund, brainstorm where we could be more helpful, and find points of contact. And I am sure they will undoubtedly be found. It will not only be about the inclusive taxi.

It can involve veterans in transportation and services, helping veteran startups, helping with expertise, etc. There may be some joint projects. Because it is essential: that the veterans feel our support, and we think the support of the veterans. I want to be a company that my country needs.

After all, this should be the position of the founders in each individual team. The veteran topic should be disseminated through various business communities and business clubs, and this topic should be promoted at different levels."

For reference:

Uklon taxi service operates in 27 cities of Ukraine and unites tens of thousands of drivers who make more than 2 million trips per month. The company has been actively participating in the veteran's movement since 2014. The company has implemented several projects. Recently, Uklon and the Dignitas charity fund collected UAH 30 million for the purchase of 1,000 Ukrainian-made shocks FPV drones – "Angry Birds."

It should be noted that 19 Ukrainian instructors – people with disabilities – were trained in Poland for the first time. After returning to Ukraine, the instructors will work with civilians and military personnel who suffered from Russian aggression and received injuries.

Rubryka also reported that by the end of 2023, elevators for people with disabilities would appear at the capital's railway station.

In April, "Ukrzaliznytsia" received 100 new carriages, 37 of which are adapted for passengers with disabilities.