Loaves & Fishes Community Services and DuPagePads are joining forces to expand the reach of the CARES Car Program, offering a lifeline of transportation to individuals and families striving for stability in DuPage County. This strategic collaboration aims to revitalize a vital community service, providing reliable used vehicles to those who need them most, and in turn, offering hope and a pathway to self-sufficiency.
For a quarter of a century, the CARES Car Program, run by Loaves & Fishes, has been instrumental in supporting local families by gifting donated vehicles. These cars address a critical barrier to employment for many, ensuring clients can maintain job stability. DuPagePads, recognizing the immense value of such a program for their clients experiencing homelessness, is now partnering to amplify its impact. This synergy simplifies the donation process for community members wishing to contribute used cars, ensuring these vehicles directly benefit individuals actively working towards rebuilding their lives. Eligibility for the program involves an application process and specific qualifications for both Loaves & Fishes and DuPagePads clients. The program’s core mission extends beyond just employment; reliable transportation is understood as a cornerstone for accessing essential services, including healthcare, grocery shopping, and safe transport for children to school and activities. By combining their resources and networks, Loaves & Fishes and DuPagePads are poised to enhance vehicle acquisition and restoration, ultimately serving a greater number of DuPage County residents facing transportation insecurity.
Janet Derrick, Executive Vice President Programs at Loaves & Fishes, highlighted the program’s evolution and the timeliness of this partnership: “Loaves & Fishes has long supported DuPagePads clients with donated vehicles. However, shifts in the used car market have led to a noticeable decrease in donations. We deeply appreciate DuPagePads’ commitment to collaborate in securing and refurbishing donated cars for their eligible residents.” This proactive partnership addresses the challenges of sourcing quality used vehicles, ensuring the program’s sustainability and continued service to the community.
April Redzic, President and CEO of DuPagePads, conveyed the organization’s enthusiasm for the collaboration and its potential impact: “We are incredibly excited about this partnership. For the individuals and families we shelter, lack of transportation is a significant obstacle in their journey out of homelessness. In DuPage County, a car is often essential for accessing employment, medical care, childcare, and vital everyday activities. This program is a game-changer, offering hope and practical help. We are optimistic that our community will share our excitement and generously donate their used vehicles to support this life-changing initiative!” Redzic’s statement underscores the profound difference reliable transportation makes in overcoming the multifaceted challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.
The tangible impact of the used car program is best illustrated through the words of a past recipient: “Having a car has been truly life-altering, enabling me to commute to work and get to the grocery store independently. We are profoundly grateful for this vehicle. Without the generosity of the donor and the dedication of Loaves & Fishes in refurbishing it, we would not be where we are today.” This testimonial vividly demonstrates the program’s direct and transformative effect on individuals’ lives, offering a pathway to independence and stability.
About Loaves and Fishes Community Services:
Loaves & Fishes Community Services is a dedicated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, serving over 8,000 individuals weekly. They are committed to providing nutritious food and comprehensive programs aimed at fostering self-sufficiency. Recognized as one of Illinois’ largest food pantries, Loaves & Fishes offers clients a variety of healthy food options, including fresh produce, dairy, and eggs. Beyond food provision, their CARES programs are designed to empower clients towards self-reliance through emergency financial aid, assistance with accessing public benefits, the invaluable car donation program, tax preparation services, job readiness training, financial literacy courses, and the intensive Moving Up program. Loaves & Fishes extends its services across DuPage, Will, Kane, and Kendall counties, operating its Grocery Market and administrative offices in Naperville, and a Food Distribution Hub in Aurora. For further details, please visit loaves-fishes.org.
About DuPagePads:
DuPagePads, with nearly four decades of service, stands as the largest provider of support services to individuals experiencing homelessness in DuPage County. Their approach to ending homelessness centers on providing housing coupled with essential support services and employment opportunities to facilitate life transformation. The administrative office is located at 601 West Liberty, Wheaton, IL 60187. For additional information, please contact DuPagePads at 630.682.3846 or visit www.dupagepads.org.
