New program helps Butler County residents buy, repair cars

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A Butler County nonprofit is helping residents buy or repair a car to help them find a job.

LifeSpan, in collaboration with First Financial Bank, has started Steering for Success, which helps individuals purchase, finance, insure and repair a car.

The lack of affordable, reliable transportation is one of the most significant barriers for individuals in seeking and retaining a job, LifeSpan officials said.

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Individuals are provided guidance throughout the purchasing process and are provided ongoing financial coaching with a certified credit counselor after the purchase is completed.

“We have been working on this program for a long time,” said Bill Staler, LifeSpan CEO. “We saw a need for employees to obtain reliable transportation so they can get to work. We think this will help in the area’s workforce development efforts.”

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The guidance and coaching provided by Steering for Success will help alleviate some of the confusion and hassle during the car-buying process, he said.

“We are thrilled to work together with LifeSpan through this program. It removes a significant obstacle to job stability and it provides our community with a much needed service,” said Roddell McCullough, First Financial Bank Senior Vice President and Community Development Director.

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