top of page

THE UPLIFT PROJECT

Transportation is an essential aspect of daily life, allowing people to access jobs, healthcare, education, and social services. However, for low-income individuals and families, transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing these resources. In Chattanooga, Tennessee, there is a need for transportation assistance for low-income populations to improve their mobility and access to essential services.

 

One of the main challenges faced by our low-income community members in Chattanooga is the lack of reliable public transportation. The city's public transit system, the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), operates a limited number of routes and has reduced service hours on weekends and holidays. This can make it difficult for low-income individuals who do not own a car to access essential services outside of regular business hours.

 

In addition to reliable public transportation, they also face challenges related to car repair and maintenance. Many low-income individuals own older vehicles that require frequent repairs and maintenance, which can be costly and can impact their ability to access essential services such as jobs, healthcare, and education.

 

Overall, the need for car repair and transportation assistance for our low-income community in Chattanooga is significant. By providing targeted programs and resources through the UPLIFT PROJECT to help families maintain their vehicles and access reliable transportation, can help alleviate financial burdens, improve their quality of life and strengthen our city's overall economy.

pexels-kampus-production-6182096.jpg

HOW DOES IT WORK

An online application process will be offered which includes answering a series of questions to determine eligibility for services and which program area would be serve the client’s transportation needs. 

​

Once submitted and vetted, a scheduled conversation with our case coordinator will be conducted to confirm information provided (client will bring all necessary documents for their files) and fully discuss next steps.
 

NOTE: If the repair program is the best suited option, a scheduled vehicle assessment to determine the overall vehicle condition will be conducted to determine if a one-time repair within our financial guidelines would meet the immediate need of getting the vehicle back working properly to drive.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

21 years or older

 

Valid Driver’s license for someone in the household

(Unless retired/disabled vehicle owner dependent upon another driver in the household)

 

Hamilton County Resident

 

Current and valid vehicle registration (Must be owned & registered in client’s name for at least three months)

 

Liability insurance that meets Tennessee's Financial Responsibility Law (click here for more information)

 

Work minimum of 25 hours a week OR enrolled in technical school or college

(unless receiving disability income, social security income, retired)

 

No DUI/DWI or vehicular felonies on your license within the last 5 years 

pexels-mídia-4116207.jpg

SERVICES OFFERED

 

Vehicle Repairs

 

Vehicle Assessment for repairs is conducted prior to automotive repairs on a client’s vehicle and a full recommendation of assessment is provided to the client.

 

Vehicle repairs direct financial allowances go to repair center or third party such as insurance.

No funds go directly to potential client.

 

Towing assistance for inoperable vehicle if needed.

 

Auto Insurance

 

Auto insurance payment (up to $250.00) Up to 3 months of liability insurance. 

THE FOLLOWING EXCEED OUR PROGRAM LIMITS

 

Rebuild or replace transmissions

​

Rebuild or replace engines

​

Repairs and vehicle damages that are a result of an accident or vandalism

 

Make repairs on vehicles with an ignition interlock device or breath alcohol ignition interlock device (IID and BAIID)

​

Repairs that exceed the vehicle’s value

​

Known vehicle manufacturer’s design defects cause significant issues that can hinder the viability of a reliable vehicle and are documented to constantly fail in certain vehicle’s makes and models.

​

NOTE: Vehicle's value and defects will be determined through information provided by Kelly's Blue Book·

bottom of page