How we started
River City Rides was born out of a simple yet powerful realization in the heart of Grand Rapids. In 2018, a group of local advocates noticed that many of their neighbors were eligible for critical benefits—like Food Assistance, Healthy Michigan, and WIC—but remained unenrolled. The community's untapped potential was overwhelming; families were struggling without the support they deserved. They were not just statistics, but hardworking individuals and families in neighborhoods like the West Side and Southeast Grand Rapids, facing tough times without access to vital resources.
With a shared passion for helping others, these advocates formulated a plan: leverage the often-overlooked resource of vehicle donations to fund a comprehensive benefits-research service. By donating an unused car, community members could help their neighbors access the support they needed while also driving positive change in the community. This innovative funding mechanism quickly gained traction, and River City Rides was established, becoming a beacon of hope and assistance for those in need in our vibrant city.
Our mission
At River City Rides, our mission is simple yet impactful: we connect Grand Rapids residents with the support they need to thrive. Through our vehicle-donation program, we fund an essential benefits-research service that helps individuals and families access programs like Food Assistance, LIHEAP, FIP, and Healthy Michigan. Our aim is to ensure that every neighbor in our city is aware of and enrolled in the benefits they qualify for, fostering a stronger, healthier community.
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We believe in being open about our processes, funding, and impact, ensuring everyone understands how their donations help local families.
Zero-Fee Pickup
Donating your vehicle should never come with hidden costs. We offer a hassle-free, no-fee pickup service for your convenience.
Local-First Research
Our focus is on understanding the unique needs of Grand Rapids residents, ensuring the benefits we promote are relevant and accessible.
Dignity in Every Interaction
We treat every individual with respect, fostering a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Our principles
- Community empowerment is at the heart of our mission.
- Collaboration with local organizations drives our success.
- We prioritize the needs of our neighbors above all.
- Data-driven decisions help us improve our services.
- Compassion guides our interactions with every community member.
Why this city
Grand Rapids is a place filled with diverse neighborhoods, from the vibrant Heartside District to the growing Kentwood area. However, many residents, especially in underserved areas, face significant barriers to accessing vital resources. Recent data highlights enrollment gaps in programs like Healthy Michigan and LIHEAP, leaving many families without essential support. By focusing on our city's unique demographics and needs, River City Rides aims to bridge the gap, ensuring that every individual is connected to the benefits they are entitled to, creating a more equitable community for all.
Ready to make a difference in Grand Rapids? Consider donating your vehicle to River City Rides today. Your contribution can help us connect fellow residents with the benefits they need to thrive. Alternatively, if you’re seeking assistance or want to learn more about available programs, reach out to us and use our benefits finder. Together, we can uplift our community and ensure that everyone has access to the vital support they deserve.