ATLANTA — The coronavirus pandemic continues to take a toll on how we go about our daily lives.
Restrictions resulting from the outbreak have shed a light on so many who are in need.Those restrictions though, have also provided an opportunity for people to lend a helping hand, and that's exactly what one Atlanta transportation business is doing to keep themselves and their community moving.
"It definitely helps a lot of people," said Nicholas Joiner, owner of Al Capone Transportation Group.
The business is used to rolling people around on special occasions in limos, sedans and party buses, but now they’re working help get seniors, healthcare workers, and other in need to the places they need to go -- for free.
It all started when he noticed a woman and her granddaughter having trouble finding a way home from the grocery store.
"She was left in the rain, so I took her home, helped them and that's what really ignited this to start helping out with the transportation efforts," said Joiner.
He said whether it's a trip to the supermarket, the pharmacy or picking up medical workers arriving in the city from the airport, he and his 17 member staff have traveled across the metro from Marietta to Snellville, but the biggest need has been in south and southwest Atlanta.
So far they've helped nearly 200 people in the last three weeks.
"We're so focused on our careers, our family, on businesses or your job,” said Joiner. “Then when you're in a situation when you don't see that normal life and you see people that are actually really struggling because you can actually see that now, I think it opens your eyes up to really to change your perspective on life on what your priorities are."
Joiner said the free rides help his keep his staff busy and paid, even though they are not making money.
They're also handing out masks and gloves to riders who need them during their trips.
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