Uber driver stays afloat amid coronavirus, chef’s program helps laid-off restaurant workers

Service industry and gig economy workers are getting hit hard by the fallout from COVID-19. For Uber and Lyft drivers, business has dried up. Fewer people are commuting, coming home from clubs and bars. This comes months after the landmark Dynamex ruling that gave drivers employee status and benefits.

We talk to James Hicks, a full-time Uber driver and member of the Rideshare Drivers United organizing committee. He’s still driving. We ask what types of places he’s taking passengers to right now, and whether he thinks he’ll survive financially.

We also hear from Nancy Silverton, co-owner of Pizzeria Mozza and Osteria Mozza. She’s turning her restaurants on Melrose Avenue into a relief center for others in the business who’ve been laid off or have had a significant reduction in hours and pay. Here’s more info about the program.