1. What is Help! I Need Transportation! (HINT)? HINT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting individuals and families who depend on reliable transportation to access critical services, including healthcare, employment, and education. Transportation is a key social determinant of health (SDOH), directly impacting financial stability, wellness, and quality of life. By providing gently used vehicles, auto repairs, and educational courses to restore hope, opportunity, and dignity.
2. Who is eligible for assistance from HINT? We primarily serve single parents, disabled or elderly individuals, and veterans who are unable to meet work or family obligations due to transportation challenges.
That said, we do have some “top-level” verifiable qualifications that applicants MUST meet for further consideration. These are:
- Resident of Franklin, Delaware, Licking, Fairfield, Pickaway, Madison, Union Counties
- Currently Employed
- Valid Driver’s license
- Insured OR Insurable (able to be insured and can maintain auto insurance coverage)
- Current on auto payments or full ownership status (if needing repair assistance)
Further, we also partner with agencies and other organizations who assist people experiencing hardship or adversity, for referring individuals and families whom we may be able to help.
3. How can I apply for assistance? To apply for auto repair services or to request a vehicle, please complete the appropriate application form available on our website:
- Auto Repair Application: [Link]
- Auto Assistance Application: [Link]
4. What is the application process like? After submitting your application, it will undergo a vetting process. One of our team members will review your application, and if considered, will follow up for additional information. As we indicated earlier, we also collaborate with community referral partners to assess and prioritize requests based on need and available resources.
From there, each case will be reviewed by our Advisory Board before a decision is made.
5. How is HINT funded? Our funding comes from generous donations, grants, sponsorships, and fundraising events. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all financial contributions are tax-deductible.
6. How can I support HINT? You can support us by:
- Donating: Financial contributions can be made securely through our website.
Help I Need Transportation - Vehicle Donations: We accept in-kind donations, such as vehicles (in ALL conditions), to support our mission.
Help I Need Transportation - Volunteering: Opportunities are available to assist with events, outreach, and other activities.
- Sponsorships: Partner with us through event sponsorships or corporate giving programs.
- Become a Service Partner! For those operating in the automotive service space, you can become a service partner to help us help others!
7. How are donations used? Donations directly support our programs, including vehicle repairs, replacements, and educational courses, enabling individuals to regain their mobility and independence. Donated vehicles will either be repaired for road-readiness, or liquidated to support our mission.
9. Do you offer educational courses? While none are currently yet scheduled, educational programs on safety and car-car are on the drawing board for 2025! These will take the form of one-day Auto Safety Clinics to teach basic auto safety skills.
10. How can I contact HINT for more information? You can reach us at:
- Address: 81 Mill Street, Suite 300, Gahanna, OH, 43230, USA
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (614) 502-6328
For more details, please visit our website: https://helpineedtransportation.com/
These FAQs are designed to provide a clear understanding of HINT’s mission, services, and ways to get involved. If you have further questions or need additional information, feel free to contact us directly.