By Car Partnership Adds Benefits

LCCAA’s By Car program has partnered with OhioMeansJobs Lorain County to increase the maximum match and provide funds for insurance.

OMJ matches participants funds 3 to 1 (match ceiling is $6,000). Participants attend a one-time financial literacy course as well as review the costs of owning a vehicle and the value of continued savings.

Income can be earned from employment, selfemployment or a combination.

To participate in the OMJ program, you must:

- Register by calling 440-324-5244.

- Schedule and complete orientation.

- Complete Work Keys and be engaged in the workshops the OMJ provide.

- Be assigned an employment specialist.

Once this is completed and the employment specialist approves you, OMJ will submit the voucher to LCCAA.

The next steps will be:

- Save $2,000 to put down on a car.

- Complete the Financial Literacy Class at LCCAA.

- OMJ will match $3 for every $1 you save to a max of $6,000. You will be able to purchase an $8,000 car.

- Participants completing their purchase also receive one year of car insurance paid, up to $2,500.

The income eligibility requirements are based on family size and total family income. Participants must be living at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Line ($55,500 for a family of four in 2022).

Other program requirements:

- Be employed, or

- Be enrolled in a certified training or full-time college education program.

- Complete a financial literacy class.

- Agree to open a savings account.

- Commit to owning the vehicle for no less than six months.

- Agree to abide by the program requirements.

For more information, contact Bobby Taylor, Planning and Community Services Director, at btaylor@lccaa. net.