By Sarah Lindsey
Northeast News
July 20, 2016

KANSAS CITY, Missouri – What would a reliable vehicle mean to you?

Drive KC to Work is a program operated by Bishop Sullivan Center (6435 Truman Road, KCMO 64126) that helps low-income individuals obtain reliable transportation at an affordable cost, so that they may gain or maintain employment. These vehicles offer families greater access to child care, stores, after-school activities and educational opportunities. For many, these vehicles are sorely needed, as approximately 18% of available jobs in the KC area are accessible by public transportation.

Phil Smith, former owner of Dick Smith Ford, combined with Bishop Sullivan Center a couple of months ago to revive the Drive KC to Work program. So far, three families have been the beneficiaries of the Bishop Sullivan Center’s latest endeavor.

“A lot of people who are working hard and doing the right thing are being held back by not having a vehicle,” said Smith. “The great thing was, besides it being a fabulous opportunity—just personally—it helped them so much now to get to more opportunities such as jobs, promotions, overtime, and increased income opportunities. It is very rewarding.”

Applicants have to meet certain qualifications: they need to work at least 30 hours a week, must be insurable and have a valid driver’s license, must be able to afford the maximum sale price of $1,000 for the vehicle up front, must be able to pay for all licensing, sales tax and registration fees (approximately $200), and the household must be at or below 200% of poverty level. In order to apply for this program you must be referred, or already a part of one of Bishop Sullivan Center’s programs.

Metropolitan Community Colleges (MCC) students are also eligible for the Drive KC to Work program. If you are a student in a post-secondary education program, you could qualify. You must be a part-time student working a minimum of 25 hours a week, maintain a 2.5 grade point average and be referred through MCC.

“The only problem is getting good, quality vehicles. We’re doing very well with getting applicants,” said Phil Smith. “The success and growth of the project will be dependent upon vehicles being provided for people.”

These vehicles are reliable trade-ins from Dick Smith Ford, and they are typically 10 or more years old with over 100,000 miles. Recipients are to keep up with the maintenance, and maintain a valid driver’s license and insurance on the vehicle, which will come with limited warranties. The Bishop Sullivan Center is also hoping to expand the program’s sponsorship and work with other dealerships. To find out more information on Drive KC to Work, contact Phil Smith at the Bishop Sullivan Center at 816.231.0984 or phil.smith@bishopsullivan.org.