LA ‘Mobility Wallet’ Increased Quality of Life for Participants

Los Angeles residents who were awarded a $150 monthly transportation stipend say the program helped them improve their mobility, making a major impact on their lives during the one-year pilot program.

“The Mobility Wallet Program gave 1,000 residents in South L.A., all of which are considered low-income and describe themselves as persons of color, a $150 monthly stipend on a pre-paid debit card to pay for transportation services,” explains Travis Schlepp for KTLA.

Ultimately, during the duration of the one-year pilot program, participants experienced an increase in quality of life due to reduced stress, deeper connections with their closest friends and families, and a sense of independence they previously hadn’t enjoyed. Their mental health improved, and evidence suggests their physical health was positively impacted as well.

The cards were valid on local public transit as well as Amtrak, Greyhound, ride-hailing apps, and bike and scooter rentals. Program participants say the subsidy saved them money they were able to use for other essentials. Women who received the cards said they felt safer since they were able to take Lyft or Uber rides at night. “Now that the program has concluded, the stress of those financial burdens has returned, researchers found.”

A second phase of the program will distribute cards to 2,000 participants in the South LA pilot zone and throughout Los Angeles County.