MINNEAPOLIS — Providing an essential service that extends beyond auto repairs, The Lift Garage stands as a beacon of hope for those battling poverty and homelessness in Minneapolis.
"Our whole perspective, our whole approach is to try to think about our work as building community with our customers, creating a safe community outside of this place," explained Cathy Heying, founder and executive director of The Lift Garage. "We are not just fixing these cars for our customers; we are all driving on those roads with unsafe cars that nobody can afford to fix."
Heying emphasizes The Lift's mission as a nonprofit auto repair shop dedicated to offering low-cost auto repairs for low-income Minnesotans. "Between our winters and our inadequate public transit system, it is hard to function without a car when you live in Minneapolis. When you have a job in the far suburbs, there is no reliable bus; then everything breaks down."
While the emphasis remains on the day-to-day mission of keeping people mobile, The Lift Garage is also celebrating a major milestone by marking its tenth year in operation. "We started using only volunteers. Now, 10 years in, we have a fully paid, well-trained staff. All of our technicians could be working at any other shop - they work here," stated Heying.
Steve Heimsness, one of the dedicated technicians at The Lift, isn't shy about sharing his commitment to the cause. "The more I found out about it, the more I liked the idea," he recalls. "Seven years later, I am still here, to be able to help people help themselves - give them a boost that can get them out of poverty conditions, abusive relationship conditions, on their feet from unemployment. If only we could service more people, we could serve a need that is out there that is so great. It would be a huge bonus for the whole community."
The Lift Garage recently received recognition for its impactful work by earning a $4000 grant from the TEGNA Foundation. The nonprofit stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, offering not just repairs but also a path to stability and empowerment for those in need.
For more information or assistance, contact The Lift Garage at 612-540-2541.
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