New partnership to provide free rides for CWU students

When Gonzaga University student Diego Garza died in a tragic car accident in 2023, his family wanted to do everything they could to prevent others from suffering such a devastating loss.

Together, they established the DMAC Foundation, which provides students with free rides to and from college campuses, along with educational resources about the dangers of fentanyl and accidental overdose.

The Garza family’s #GetHomeSafe program is launching at CWU this fall, in partnership with the Office of Health Promotion. Students can meet with DMAC Foundation representatives at the CWU football game on October 4 to learn more about the program and the story behind it.

Diego’s mom and DMAC co-founder Brooke Beaty knows how important a safe ride home can be for the health and well-being of college students.

“At the heart of the DMAC Foundation is our unwavering commitment to safeguard the well-being of every child and young adult,” she said. “We believe that every child deserves a secure and safe journey back home, free from harm, fear, or uncertainty.”

Students interested in taking advantage of the #GetHomeSafe partnership can use the code WILDCATSRIDESAFE on the Lyft app or by calling local taxi company Rainier Cab. They will be able to receive up to three rides within five miles of CWU’s campus between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. at no cost.

Since the #GetHomeSafe program launched at Gonzaga University last year, it has provided over 1,800 rides to students. Diego’s dad and DMAC co-founder Steve Garza believes the program has gone a long way toward honoring his son’s memory.

“The DMAC Foundation was created in his honor, to ensure others get home safe to their families and fulfill their purpose and dreams,” he said. “With the community support, tools and resources we provide, we can honor his legacy for years to come.”

If you have questions about #GetHomeSafe, email dmacenterprisesinc@gmail.com.