How we started
CarLift Utah began with a simple realization in the heart of Salt Lake City: many of our neighbors were eligible for essential benefits but remained unenrolled. Volunteers from various neighborhoods noticed that families in areas like Rose Park and Sugar House often struggled to navigate the complexities of programs like SNAP and Medicaid. Inspired by this gap, we envisioned a way to raise awareness and provide support—by harnessing the power of vehicle donations.
This innovative funding model allowed us to transform unused cars into crucial resources for our community. As residents donated their vehicles, the proceeds helped us create a dedicated research service that connects individuals with benefits they deserve. Our journey started with a few passionate locals, and thanks to their generosity, CarLift Utah now serves thousands of residents annually, bridging the gap between eligibility and access.
Our mission
At CarLift Utah, our mission is to empower local residents by connecting them to vital assistance programs like SNAP, Utah Medicaid, WIC, HEAT, and the Family Employment Program (FEP). We strive to eliminate barriers that keep eligible individuals from receiving benefits and to create a more accessible community for everyone. Through vehicle donations, we not only support our mission but also uplift those in need by providing valuable resources and research tailored to each person's situation.
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We believe in keeping our processes open, ensuring our funders and beneficiaries understand how donations are allocated.
Zero-Fee Pickup
We offer free vehicle pickup to ensure every donation directly supports the community without hidden costs.
Local-First Research
Our research is focused on Utah's specific needs, catering to local residents and their unique situations.
Dignity in Every Interaction
We treat every neighbor with respect and dignity, acknowledging their struggles while providing essential services.
Our principles
- We prioritize community engagement in every decision we make.
- Collaboration is key to achieving our goals efficiently.
- Continuous learning helps us adapt to the community's needs.
- Every interaction should uplift and respect our neighbors.
- Transparency fosters trust and accountability in our operations.
Why this city
Salt Lake City is a vibrant and diverse community, consisting of neighborhoods like Liberty Wells, West Valley, and downtown, where families often face economic struggles. With a growing population that includes various demographics, many eligible residents remain unenrolled in critical programs due to lack of awareness or support. By addressing these enrollment gaps, CarLift Utah aims to uplift our city—ensuring that everyone can access benefits like SNAP, WIC, and Utah Medicaid through our dedicated research service. This is our home, and we are committed to making it better for all.
Join us in driving positive change in Salt Lake City! By donating a vehicle to CarLift Utah, you contribute to our mission and help your neighbors access the benefits they deserve. If you or someone you know needs assistance, explore our benefits finder to discover the programs available to you. Together, we can make a difference in our community!