Good News Garage is an innovative program working to improve lives and inspire hope. It was the first program in the nation to provide low-income individuals and families with safe and reliable transportation to access jobs and other economic opportunities. For many people who are struggling, the lack of a reliable car can present a major barrier to gainful employment. It also limits their access to housing, health care, education, childcare, affordable shopping and religious services. Empower New Haven, Inc. in partnership with Good News Garage offers assistance to Empowerment Zone residents in attaining both a driver’s license and car.

Good News Garage accepts donated cars, gives them a 72-point safety check, repairs them to ensure they are both safe and reliable, and then provides them to individuals on the brink of economic independence. Recipients use the vehicles to get to a job, improve their family’s quality of life and ultimately get off of state assistance to become financially self-sufficient.

In order to apply, applicants must be EZ residents who do not have a driver’s license and are currently employed or have a legitimate job offer. Applicants must not own or insure a vehicle in Connecticut; and have sufficient income to pay for ongoing vehicle maintenance, repairs, insurances, and taxes. Applicants must demonstrates a significant difficulty in commuting (i.e. an hour or more each way, two or more transfers, client works 2nd or 3rd shift, etc.). Lastly, demonstrate the motivation and maturity necessary to own and operate a vehicle.

Resources

Lutheran Social Services, Inc.

Partners and Affiliates

Lutheran Social Services, Inc.