Picking up and delivering straight to you
by Lynn Lofton
The Bolivar Bullet
When Charley Lucas saw a need in the town of Ruleville, he stepped in to fill it. A few weeks ago he started driving for Uber and Uber Eats covering not just Ruleville but also the northern half of Sunflower County and some of Cleveland. He says it’s a learning process.
“I saw that these services are popular in larger towns and no one provided them here,” he said. “There are people who need rides and it makes it simpler going through the Uber app. It provides structure.”
The process to drive and deliver for Uber is a rigorous one that includes meeting strict requirements, passing a criminal background check, and having a motor vehicle inspection and insurance to make sure both driver and vehicle are safe. Lucas says it can take months to complete. He chose Uber because it’s well known and has built-in checks.
“I’m busy and it’s been great,” he said. “I’m a little surprised, especially in Rulevile, but people see national advertising about Uber.”
Several restaurants came to Lucas asking about meal delivery as no one was providing that service. He was happy to oblige. For instance, employees of North Sunflower Medical Center in Ruleville have few lunch options, but with Uber Eats Lucas can pick up and deliver saving time for the employees. Not ready to make an announcement just yet, he is working with some local restaurants for meal delivery in addition to chain eateries. “Anyone can go on the Uber app and order food and track my location,” he said.
Service and customer satisfaction are not new to Charley Lucas. After 12 years in the U.S. Army, he worked as a paramedic for 20 years. “With that background I know how to give good service,” he says. “I’m old fashioned and treat others the way I want to be treated. I’m enjoying it and ready to serve and help.”
The 50-year-old Eupora native likes the freedom of the driving schedule as he and wife Michelle have nine-year-old twin daughters. He is also the father of four grown children.