Transportation Programs
Each of our programs, while unique in their approach and objectives, strives to move an individual or family along a rational continuum towards independence by way of obtaining safe, affordable housing, a means of transportation and financial viability.
Open Hearth, Inc. has several transportation assistance programs available for residents of
Chester County and Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
Please see below for more information.
Open Hearth’s Family Savings Partner Program (FSP) provides a 1:3 match towards the purchase of a car – Participants save $1,000 and Open Hearth will provide a $3,000 match for a total of $4,000 to be used towards the purchase of a car.
Participants must commit to making monthly deposits of at least $30 at one of Open Hearth’s banking institution partners for a minimum of three months before they qualify for match money. Funds must be used within one year of beginning the program and are provided directly to the seller of the car. Open Hearth does not assist in the selection or financing of cars.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Participant must be a resident of Chester County
- Participant must have a valid driver’s license
- Participant must have income
- Adjusted gross income must be less than 400% of the Federal Poverty Level OR the family must qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit
Those accepted into the Family Savings Partner Program are required to participate in 8 hours of financial education including Open Hearth’s Car Buying: Put Yourself in the Driver’s Seat and Good Credit – How to Get It workshops.
This program is not accepting applications at this time; to be added to the waitlist, please contact Taryn Alexander by phone at (610) 280‑1033 or by email at [email protected].
The JumpStart program offers 0% interest car repair loans (up to $1,000 per participant) to residents of Chester County. The program allows participants to maintain their transportation and therefore their employment, without also threatening their ability to pay for other essentials like rent, food, or utilities.
The JumpStart program coordinator networks with repair shops that agree to provide quality work at fair prices. Participants can always select the repair shop of their choice. All payments are made by Open Hearth directly to the repair shop.
Program guidelines include:
- Must be an adult resident of Chester County
- Driver’s license, insurance, and registration must be valid and up to date
- Must have a documented need (a repair estimate) for the vehicle to pass state inspection or to ensure the vehicle’s safety
- Household income must not exceed 300% of the federal poverty level (for example, $46,950 for a single person; $79,950 for a household of 3)
- Must be able to demonstrate the ability to repay the loan within one year
For more information or to apply – [email protected] or call 610-280-1023
While transportation continues to be a barrier for many Chester County residents, there are resources available via our community partners.
For more information, please visit www.ChescoRideGuide.org
Transportation Programs
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