(Vero Beach, FL) The non-profit group Driving Success has received a $2,500 donation from St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church in Vero Beach, which will help two low-income working families get much-needed cars.
The donation will cover the cost of necessary maintenance and safety repairs to two vehicles that were donated to the organization in December, said Michele Peters, founder of Driving Success.
“Both vehicles will require some mechanical maintenance to ensure that they are safe and in good operating condition, and ready for distribution to two qualified local families,” Peters said.
One vehicle requires a new battery, some minor engine repairs, a transmission flush, an oil change, and a deep, deep cleaning, she said. The other vehicle requires a passenger window motor and rearview mirror, an oil change, and minor cleaning.
“We are so grateful for the church’s support that makes this all possible,” she said.
Rev. Wes Shields, the rector of the church, said affordable, convenient transportation is one of the biggest unmet needs of low-income working people in Indian River County.
“The church, through its outreach committee, is pleased to be able to support Driving Success as it helps qualified working people get a car,” he said.
Driving Success obtains vehicles through donation or purchase, and restores them to good working order with the support of community partners in the automotive industry and with financial contributions from individuals and groups such as St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church. Vehicles are then distributed to economically disadvantaged recipients who meet the program’s qualifications.
The overall goal, Peters said, is to increase self-sufficiency in the community by providing a path to vehicle ownership for hard-working families and individuals.
For more information or to support the Driving Success mission with a vehicle donation or financial contribution, go to www.DrivingSuccessIRC.org.