The primary mission of the Clinton County Community Action Program is to eliminate poverty.
An important aspect of that mission is to help our citizens find and keep a job. Often, when someone in poverty gets a job, they then struggle to obtain transportation.
The Clinton County Community Action Program has operated a CARS Program since 2000. Since the inception of the CARS Program the agency has assisted many Clinton County residents with the purchase of a reliable vehicle to allow them to travel to and from work.
The goal of the CARS program is to assist employed individuals in purchasing a vehicle that they would otherwise be unable to obtain; possibly because of poor credit or high monthly payments. With a reliable, used vehicle, a resident will then be able to get to and from work; allowing them to maintain a job and rise above poverty.
The Community Action program acts as the financier of the vehicle. To apply, individuals need to complete an application providing proof of income and a valid Ohio driver’s license. A committee looks at the application and then an interview is scheduled with the applicant.
Once an applicant is approved, they are contacted to look for a vehicle that is within their price range and meets the transportation needs of the client. Prior to authorizing the purchase of a CARS Program vehicle, a professional mechanic will inspect the vehicle to ensure that it is in reliable condition.
No down payment is required, but the applicant will have to pay for the taxes, title and tags. A clear title will be provided to the owner once the cost of the vehicle is paid in full.
This is another example of how the Clinton County Community Action Program is working every day to help our citizens rise above poverty. For further information, individuals can call Community Action at 937-382-8365.
