How we started
Steel City Wheels was born out of a shared passion for our Pittsburgh community and a shocking realization. In the heart of our steel city, many of our neighbors were not taking advantage of the benefits they were eligible for, such as SNAP, TANF, and LIHEAP. We noticed that countless families were struggling to make ends meet, often not aware of the resources available to them. This insight inspired a group of local activists to take action and find a sustainable funding model that would empower our fellow Pittsburghers.
After extensive discussions over pierogies and coffee, we settled on vehicle donation as our funding mechanism. It made perfect sense; many residents had old cars sitting idle in their driveways. By donating these vehicles, we could not only help fund a free benefits-research service but also provide a quick and easy way for our neighbors to get involved. Thus, Steel City Wheels was officially launched, with a mission to connect families with the programs they need most.
Our mission
At Steel City Wheels, our mission is to connect Pittsburgh residents with vital benefits programs that can improve their lives. Through our vehicle donation initiative, we provide a free benefits-research service to help individuals navigate programs like PA Medical Assistance, SNAP, WIC, TANF, and LIHEAP. We believe that every Pittsburgher deserves access to the resources necessary for a stable and healthy life, and we're committed to making that access a reality.
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We believe in being open about our processes, funding, and research to build trust with our community.
Zero-Fee Pickup
When you donate your vehicle, we ensure no fees are taken from your contribution, maximizing its impact.
Local-First Research
Our research focuses specifically on Pittsburgh, tailoring benefits assistance to the unique needs of our neighborhoods.
Dignity in Every Interaction
We treat every person with respect, ensuring all interactions uphold the dignity of those seeking assistance.
Our principles
- Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all
- Prioritize the needs of our neighbors in every decision
- Encourage community involvement and outreach initiatives
- Continuously improve our services based on feedback and local insights
- Commit to lifelong learning about community needs and resources
Why this city
Pittsburgh is a city of resilience and unity, yet many neighborhoods like Hill District, Homewood, and East Liberty face significant barriers to accessing essential benefits. Our diverse demographics present a unique challenge, with many eligible residents still unaware of the programs available to support them. Through Steel City Wheels, we’re tackling these enrollment gaps directly, ensuring that families can connect with resources that help them thrive, bringing our community together for a brighter future.
Ready to make a difference? Whether you’re looking to donate a vehicle or discover how you can access essential benefits, Steel City Wheels is here to help. Join us in uplifting our community by taking action today. Your support can truly change lives right here in Pittsburgh.