ST. LOUIS – The Urban League’s Federation of Block Units has brought the historic Souls to the Polls initiative to St. Louis since Oct. 24, ensuring that all voters, especially seniors, veterans, and those without transportation, have a way to the polls.
The program dates back to the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, when African American churches aimed to support those in underserved areas to exercise their right to vote.
“We’re receiving calls from individuals who simply want to take advantage of the very first time that early voting is taking place in the general election in the state of Missouri,” Director of The Urban League’s Federation of Block Units Farrakhan Shegog said.
Souls to the Polls has been running since the start of early voting and will continue through election day, with drivers transporting voters as early as 6 a.m. on Election Day. Volunteers are also helping voters come prepared with the correct materials.
“We encourage every voter that we pick up to come with the sample ballot that was emailed to you and to your home. If you did not receive a sample ballot, we are encouraging everybody to contact your local election board” Shegog added.
Shegog stressed that voters without sample ballots often encounter issues at the polls. In St. Louis, the Urban League has partnered with the A. Phillip Randolph Institute to organize volunteers, routes and times. One of the dedicated volunteers is Rufus Shannon, a veteran committed to ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.
“It’s a responsibility of citizenship to do all we can to help our community–help our brothers and sisters out, especially when they’re having trouble getting to the polls,” Shannon said.
With only a few volunteer drivers, the initiative needs more drivers to meet the high demand. If you need a ride or would like to volunteer, call (314) 562-0411 for a ride or (314) 391-5688 to become a driver.