Opportunity Starts with Transportation
When refugee families arrive in Central Ohio to begin a new chapter, they’re starting life from zero.
Resettlement agencies work hard to support them in this transition, but one crucial element is often left behind: reliable transportation. Mobility shapes access to opportunity; having a vehicle allows families to truly rebuild their lives.
The Reality for Central Ohio Refugees
Starting over in a new country requires enormous courage. But it also comes with obstacles.
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Many refugees:
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Have limited finances while rebuilding their livelihood and careers
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Live in housing not easily connected to reliable transit
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Are unfamiliar with the used car market in the U.S.
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Risk losing thousands of dollars on unsafe or unreliable vehicles
Without guidance, one bad purchase can erase years of savings. That’s where you come in.
We Don’t Just Give Cars. We Build Independence.
This is where Rides 4 Refugees steps in! We serve Central Ohio by helping refugees secure safe, reliable transportation and the knowledge to use it responsibly. In 2025, Rides 4 Refugees has enabled:
40
Refugees have secured reliable vehicles
80+
Refugees have obtained driver’s licenses
7000+
2000+
Rides to and from the workplace
Trips to the grocery store
100+
Trips to the doctor
Countless
​Rides to schools, childcare, and community events
Ways to Make an Immediate Impact
Whether you give once or become a long-term partner, your generosity creates tangible change in someone’s daily life.
The Impact of Your Generosity
Your donation has a direct impact on our mission:
$50
Pays for a client’s first tank of gas
$350
Covers brake replacement for a donated vehicle
$100
Covers one year of roadside assistance
$600
Provides replacement tires
$200
Funds an inspection
$1,500
Fully refurbishes a donated vehicle
The Rides 4 Refugees Story
Founded by a team of Central Ohio professionals with deep automotive experience and a desire to give back, Rides 4 Refugees was created to solve a real problem: refugees rebuilding their lives in Central Ohio often lack reliable transportation to access work, healthcare, education, and the stability that comes with true independence.
Since 2022, R4R has helped dozens of families secure reliable vehicles and driver training, pairing generosity with accountability to create long-term mobility and stability.
We Partner with Local Orgs to Fulfill Transportation Needs
Major Gifts & Corporate Partnerships
Gifts over $1,000 help refurbish vehicles, expand driver training, and strengthen our Repair Assistance Program.
If you are interested in making a major gift, donating a fleet vehicle, or discussing a corporate partnership, we would welcome a conversation.
(Checks are encouraged for larger gifts where processing fees would reduce impact.)
Donation Frequently Asked Questions
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Rides 4 Refugees, Inc. is a registered nonprofit organization. You will receive a receipt for your records.
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What happens to donated vehicles?
Each vehicle is inspected and evaluated. If suitable, it is refurbished and placed directly into service for a refugee family. If a vehicle cannot be safely placed, it is responsibly liquidated to fund mobility programs.
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How are recipients chosen?
All clients are referred through trusted Central Ohio resettlement agencies. Each case is reviewed by our board and must meet strict eligibility criteria before acceptance into our program.
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Do refugees receive vehicles for free?
No. Clients participate in structured programs that include financial contribution, training, and accountability agreements.
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Who can I contact with questions about giving?
Reach out anytime at info@rides4refugees.us, and a team member will respond within 1–2 business days.