This last week was HUGE for OnRamp! In just three days we donated reliable vehicles to our next four deserving client families, marking our 195th client served. Here are two of those client stories.
Our 193rd client, a single mother of two named Sarah (blue shirt in picture above), learned about OnRamp through The Nest, an organization helping those seeking recovery from addiction. It was at The Nest that Sarah found peace and purpose. Engaging in The Nest's recovery Bible study, Sarah began to rebuild her life, one step at a time.
Her transformation was nothing short of remarkable! From battling addiction to embracing sobriety, Sarah emerged and turned her life around. Though her journey was difficult, through her commitment and courage, she not only stayed sober but also took charge of her responsibilities with diligence.
Yet lack of a vehicle significantly limited Sarah's ability to provide for her family and contribute to her community. Recognizing this barrier, JoAnn Willis, the director of The Nest, nominated her to OnRamp.
Thanks to our generous donors, last week, Sarah received the gift of a vehicle and a year of free maintenance support. This Honda CRV will give her freedom and empowerment so she can continue marching forward and providing for her family.
OnRamp Operations Director, Stephanie Mason, praying over Sarah and her family during her vehicle donation. We pray over every client in the tax office parking lot, asking for God’s protection and blessing.
Our 194th client hails from Victoria, Texas and is our second OnRamp Coastal Bend client. Leti Alvarado is a single mom who works up to 100 hours per week at three jobs to make ends meet. As she stated in her OnRamp application, “I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make sure I’m able to make it to work. Working is essential to survival and a way of life.” Unfortunately, when her previous car broke down in January, her employment and her ability to provide for her family were in danger.
Unbeknownst to Leti, her friend and mentor at church, Judy, had just heard about our new OnRamp Coastal Bend organization. After being nominated, Leti completed an application and interview, and then met with a financial advisor to create a budget and savings plan. She did a wonderful job reducing her already reasonable expenses a further 15% per month. With that success in hand, OnRamp raised approximately $10,000 to purchase and prepare a very low mileage Honda Fit to gift to Leti and her family.
Upon receiving news of her vehicle, Leti stated, “I’m very grateful for such a blessing and hope to continue to set an example for my family as well as my community. Thank you God and thank you OnRamp for helping me improve my quality of life."
From left to right: OnRamp Coastal Bend leader, Shirley, with Leti, her advocate Judy, and Diane and Chip Jennings from OnRamp Brazos Valley who delivered the donated car to Victoria, Texas.
We are overjoyed to share the grace of God with these two deserving women. However, OnRamp’s funds are running critically low, meaning that we cannot accept any new clients at this time until our bank account grows significantly. If you are able to help, please consider a special gift or monthly donation to OnRamp by visiting our GIVE page.
Last but not least, we are thrilled to introduce Stella Emira Cerone, born May 19 to Erin and Rami Cerone! Rami is our Vehicle Acquisition Team Lead and serves on our Board of Directors. Welcome to the family, Stella!