Supporting Affordable Car Repairs $10,000 awarded to SHIFT Garage

Anyone who’s lived in South Dakota knows how important access to reliable transportation is for getting to work, buying groceries and getting kids to school. Those of us fortunate enough to own our vehicles know what an inconvenience it is to lose access when repairs are needed or we get a flat tire on the side of the highway.

“A truck has so many benefits for our shop,” declared Joe Smith, Director of SHIFT Garage. “Not only can we save people money by towing repair vehicles, but now we have access to donated vehicles that need tows, helping us generate funds that keep us going. A tow truck can last years, so this gift will continue to bless the community for years to come.”

What may be an inconvenience for some becomes a much larger obstacle when an individual must choose between reliable transportation and putting food on the table. Enter SHIFT Garage.

SHIFT Garage is a nonprofit auto repair shop focused on repairing and maintaining vehicles for people who cannot afford traditional repair shops. SHIFT currently has garage locations in Rapid City and Sioux Falls. Their mission is to make a positive impact on generational poverty through empowering their customers with access to reliable and affordable transportation and vehicle maintenance. SHIFT Garage spends the majority of their time repairing vehicles. They also partner with local organizations to provide simple classes on budgeting and vehicle maintenance.

In 2022, SDCF awarded a $10,000 South Dakota Fund grant to support the work of SHIFT Garage in acquiring a tow truck for their Sioux Falls location. With the addition of a tow truck, SHIFT will be able to save their customers hundreds of dollars on tows they cannot afford.

Through partnerships and volunteers, SHIFT Garage offers vehicle repairs for just the price of parts with no labor costs or markup on parts. Individuals interested in the discounted repair are required to submit an application to SHIFT Garage. The SHIFT Garage Board of Directors then reviews applications to determine whether there is a legitimate need. Successful applicants must pay for the cost of the service prior to work being performed. SHIFT Garage believes their model helps applicants share in the responsibility of owning a vehicle and retain dignity in their situation.

SDCF was proud to support the work of SHIFT Garage through the South Dakota Fund grant program.