[janezhu]

"Uber probably didn't have a "what to do in a human tragedy" playbook and instead ran their normal operating procedures."

While this is true, it's surprising that they do not have a PR/customer service/support person that specifically keeps an eye out for incidents (or opportunities) like these. As much as their business is based on algorithms, it is run by humans, at least one of which who could have understood how the situation would appear to the average person.

Especially when you see pure-PR stunts Uber is pushing like this: http://finance.yahoo.com/blogs/the-exchange/election-day-fre...

"Uber: On Election Day, this car-service company will be offering customers a free ride to or from a national polling place, up to $20.12. Any amount above $20.12 will be charged, and the offer is only available during the city's voting hours."

I can guarantee no matter how many kudos Uber gets for encouraging people to vote-- "The average person just heard that Uber was charging New Yorkers more" post-disaster.

[colmvp]

Duracell gave free batteries and had recharge stations. Comcast had free wifi for both subscribers and non-subscribers in certain hotspots. NYTimes and WSJ had free access to their site for up-to-date information. Chase allowed people to recharge their devices at their ATMs (http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/121031113932-sandy-c...). JP Morgan waived late fees for people within affected states. UHaul offered 30 days free storage for Sandy evacuees. Walmart donated truck loads of dry food, beverages, cleaning supplies, and board games.

It's a very small cost in exchange for making a strong impact towards existing and new customers.