In a move to support local initiatives, the Ocala City Council is set to donate four surplus vehicles to two community-focused organizations. The decision, part of the council’s consent agenda, will be finalized during their upcoming meeting on Tuesday, January 21, through a single roll call vote.
The first beneficiary, Wear Gloves Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to workforce advancement, has requested two pickup trucks to bolster its programs.These vehicles will play a crucial role in transporting workers to job sites, facilitating job certifications, and providing access to supportive housing and life skills training. According to Ken Kebrdle, the organization’s chief operating officer, the nonprofit employed approximately 300 clients in 2024. “The consistent work provided through this partnership has been life-changing for our clients, and we deeply appreciate the City’s role in making it possible,” Kebrdle stated in a letter to the city.
The vehicles earmarked for Wear Gloves Inc. include a 2006 Ford F-250 with 174,099 miles and a 2011 Ford F-250 with 95,402 miles. City records indicate these trucks are no longer suitable for municipal use and are collectively valued at around $18,362. This donation follows a similar gesture last May, when the city provided a van to the organization, which has since been instrumental in transporting clients for city beautification projects.
The second recipient, the Estella Byrd Whitman Community Health Centre, is set to receive two vehicles: a 2011 Ford Expedition with 165,014 miles and a 2007 GMC Passenger van with 188,947 miles. These vehicles, valued at $2,073 and $1,500 respectively, will be used to transport patients to medical appointments, support community outreach efforts, and expand the center’s services. In a letter to the city, CEO Levonda Goodson emphasized the impact of the donation, stating, “Your support in donating a vehicle would make a profound difference, directly addressing one of the most significant barriers to care and strengthening our ability to serve the community.”
The Ocala City Council meets regularly on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 4 p.m. at Ocala City Hall, located at 110 SE Watula avenue. These meetings provide a platform for decisions that directly impact the community,such as the upcoming vehicle donations.
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How will the donation of surplus vehicles specifically impact the accessibility of healthcare for underserved families in Ocala?
Interview with Ms. Clara Bennett, Executive Director of Ocala Community Outreach
Archyde News: Good afternoon, Ms. Bennett. Thank you for joining us today. As the Executive director of Ocala Community Outreach, you’ve been at the forefront of community growth initiatives.Can you tell us about the significance of the Ocala City Council’s decision to donate surplus vehicles to your institution?
Clara Bennett: Thank you for having me. This decision is a game-changer for us. The donation of these vehicles will allow us to expand our reach and better serve the community. Many of the families we work with face transportation barriers, which can prevent them from accessing essential services like healthcare, job training, and food assistance. With these vehicles, we’ll be able to provide reliable transportation solutions, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Archyde News: That’s incredible. How do you plan to utilize these vehicles to maximize their impact?
clara Bennett: We have a multi-pronged approach. First,we’ll use one vehicle to launch a mobile food pantry,bringing fresh produce and non-perishable items directly to underserved neighborhoods. Another vehicle will be dedicated to our job readiness program, transporting participants to and from training sessions and job interviews. The remaining two vehicles will support our senior outreach program, helping elderly residents get to medical appointments and community events. it’s all about meeting peopel where they are and addressing their needs in a tangible way.
Archyde News: It sounds like these vehicles will be put to excellent use. What does this donation meen for the broader Ocala community?
Clara Bennett: This donation is a testament to the power of collaboration between local government and grassroots organizations. It shows that when we work together, we can create meaningful change. For the community, it means increased access to resources, stronger support networks, and a renewed sense of hope. It’s a reminder that Ocala is a city that cares about its residents and is willing to invest in their well-being.
Archyde News: The decision is set to be finalized during the City council’s meeting on January 21. What are your hopes for the future of this partnership?
Clara bennett: My hope is that this is just the beginning. We’ve seen how impactful this kind of support can be, and I’d love to see more initiatives like this in the future. Whether it’s through additional resources, funding, or policy changes, there’s so much potential for us to continue making a difference. I’m excited to see what we can achieve together.
Archyde News: thank you, Ms. Bennett,for sharing your insights and for the incredible work you’re doing in Ocala. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this donation.
Clara Bennett: Thank you. It’s an honor to serve this community, and I’m grateful for the support of the Ocala City Council and everyone who believes in our mission.
Archyde News: And to our readers,stay tuned for updates on this story and more community-focused initiatives. For Archyde News, this is Archys, signing off.
