How we started
Heartfelt Rides was born from the heart of Birmingham, where the deep-rooted spirit of community and support thrives. Our founders, noticing a concerning trend of eligible residents missing out on vital benefits like SNAP and LIHEAP, realized that many had the potential to change their lives with just a little bit of direction. They saw firsthand the struggles faced by neighbors in areas like Ensley, Avondale, and West End and knew there was a better way to connect them with the resources they needed.
To bridge this gap, we decided to leverage the power of vehicle donations as a funding model for our mission. By turning unused cars into essential funds, we not only provide a convenient option for donors but also ensure that every dollar supports our free benefits-research service, making a measurable difference in our community. Together, we can uplift each other, one vehicle at a time.
Our mission
At Heartfelt Rides, we are committed to empowering our Birmingham neighbors by connecting them with essential benefits programs like Alabama Medicaid, TANF, WIC, and LIHEAP. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to simplify the enrollment process, ensuring that those who qualify can access the assistance they need for a better quality of life. Through vehicle donations, we provide a sustainable funding source for our initiatives, reinforcing our mission to uplift our local community.
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We believe in open communication and transparency with our donors and beneficiaries, ensuring trust and accountability in everything we do.
Zero-Fee Pickup
Donating your vehicle should be easy. That’s why we offer free vehicle pickups without any hidden fees, ensuring every dollar helps our mission.
Local-First Research
We prioritize research that is deeply rooted in Birmingham, focusing on local needs and making informed decisions that reflect the unique demographics of our community.
Dignity in Every Interaction
Every person we assist deserves respect and dignity. We approach every exchange with compassion, ensuring that all interactions are empowering and uplifting.
Our principles
- Empower our community through accessible resources.
- Foster strong relationships between donors and beneficiaries.
- Utilize local insights to drive our mission.
- Innovate continuously to improve outreach and services.
- Celebrate every success, large or small, together.
Why this city
Birmingham is a city rich in history and diversity, yet many neighborhoods, such as North Birmingham and Pratt City, experience significant enrollment gaps in public benefits. With a population that includes a mix of families, students, and retirees, we recognize the economic challenges many face. By concentrating our efforts here, we aim to address these gaps and ensure all residents have equal access to programs like SNAP and Medicaid. Our local focus fosters community trust and strengthens the bonds that make Birmingham special.
If you have a vehicle that you no longer use, consider donating it to Heartfelt Rides. Your contribution will help provide essential benefits research to your neighbors. And if you or someone you know is seeking assistance, don’t hesitate to use our benefits finder. Together, we can drive positive change in Birmingham!