If you are struggling with reliable transportation in Maryland, you need to know about Vehicles for Change! This incredible organization offers help with affordable vehicles, auto repair and more to help you become more independent and self-reliant.
What is Vehicles for Change?
Vehicles for Change is a nonprofit in Maryland that is dedicated to helping people achieve independence and self-sufficiency. They are especially interested in providing reliable transportation so that people can participate fully in the workforce.
Since 1999, this organization has provided over 8,200 vehicles to families in need. They’ve also trained 350+ students through their Auto Training Centers, and helped over 28,000 across their region.
What Services Do They Offer?
Vehicles for Change operates four separate programs:
- Keys to Indenpence, which provides affordable, reliable vehicles for low income families in Maryland. These are not free cars — you will be expected to pay up to $1,000 for the vehicle but they have financing partners that can help.
- Full Circle Auto Repair Centers, which provide repair and maintenance assistance to the community at a reasonable price.
- Full Circle Auto Training, which provides hands-on automotive training to help people move forward with automotive careers.
- VR Training by Vehicles for Change which helps provide training to new auto technicians so they can develop job-ready skills.
Am I Eligible?
In order to be eligible for the Keys to Independence vehicle placement program, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a Maryland resident with a Maryland driver’s license.
- You cannot have any DUIs or DWIs within the last three years.
- You must work at least 30 hours a week or have a verifiable job offer letter.
- You must be able to pay $950 – $1,000 for the vehicle in addition to any title, registration and tag fees.
- You must be able to get and maintain insurance for the vehicle.
They will expect you to provide a certified three-year MVA driving record as part of your application.
How Do I Apply?
You can’t apply for yourself. You will need to have a participating sponsoring agency refer you to this organization.
- Connect with a sponsoring agency partner. They maintain a list of current partners on their website. The organization will have to apply on your behalf. They will screen you for eligibility.
- Submit an application. If the agency thinks you’re eligible, they can help you submit an application.
- Wait for a match. If you are approved, then you will be put on the list for a vehicle award. The awards are made as donations become available, so it may be a while before you receive the vehicle.
Relief Recap
Even though the vehicles from this program are not free, they are reliable and very affordable. The additional services provided by their auto service centers and training programs help provide additional opportunities for low income car owners and workers.
