Two Teens Find Independence Through By Car

posted 2/13/23 -- Two more Lorain County teens have independence thanks to LCCAA’s By Car program.

Adamaris Guzman and Kristina Fernandez have purchased cars to drive to school and work.

Guzman purchased a 2014 Nissan Sentra on Jan. 6 and is driving to classes at Lorain High School and her job at McDonalds.

Fernandez purchased her 2015 Chrysler 200 on Jan. 27. She’s a junior at Elyria High School also working as a cashier at Apples.

Both young ladies made their first drives to help their families.

“The first place I drove my car was to Sam’s Club to get groceries for my family and I,” Guzman said.

Fernandez’s first drive was to pick her niece up from school and take her mom to the bank.

“I think it’s amazing what the program does for people,” Fernandez said. “It really helped me and my family out now that I have my own vehicle to get where I need to go. I don’t have to worry about as many things or being late as much and it gives me so much more freedom.”

Guzman was relying on her cousin and grandmother for rides and Fernandez is grateful for her own car since her mother cannot drive much due to health issues.

Both ladies were very grateful for the program.

“I would say it’s definitely worth it and to definitely do it,” Guzman said. “You will see the benefits of this program once you get your own car.”

By Car matches earned income at a rate of $3 to $1 to help participants purchase a reliable used car for work or school. The program partners with OhioMeansJobs Lorain County. Participants have access to a number of assessments and tools available through OMJ. The program also includes one year of car insurance up to $2,500.

Learn more: https://www.lccaa.net/programs/ByCar