How we started
Big Sky Rides began on a chilly winter evening in Missoula, when a gathering of local neighbors revealed a startling truth: many hardworking Montanans were struggling with basic needs—hunger, healthcare, and housing—while being unaware of the support available to them. Inspired by the stories of eligible but unenrolled families, we realized that connecting them to programs like SNAP and Montana Medicaid could change lives. The concept of a vehicle donation program emerged as a way to turn unwanted cars into a lifeline, funding the research and outreach needed to inform these families.
As the program took root, local businesses and community members rallied around the mission. With every car donated, we grew closer to bridging the gap between neighbors and the benefits they qualified for. Our donors became partners in transformation, ensuring that no Montanan had to navigate life's challenges alone. With heartfelt stories of impact, Big Sky Rides is proud to serve every corner of our great state, reminding us all that we’re stronger together.
Our mission
Our mission at Big Sky Rides is to connect every Montanan with the benefits they deserve. By facilitating vehicle donations, we fund a comprehensive benefits-research service that helps locals navigate programs such as SNAP, Montana Medicaid, TANF, WIC, and LIEAP. We believe that when we empower our neighbors with the resources they need, we build stronger communities and brighter futures across Montana. Join us in transforming lives one ride at a time!
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We openly share our processes and impacts, ensuring every donation has a clear purpose and measurable outcome.
Zero-Fee Pickup
We believe in honesty and efficiency, charging no fees for the pickup of donated vehicles to maximize funds for local benefits research.
Local-First Research
Our research focuses exclusively on the specific needs of Montanans, ensuring that we address local challenges effectively.
Dignity in Every Interaction
Every conversation with our community members is grounded in respect and understanding, ensuring they feel valued and heard.
Our principles
- Empower local communities through knowledge and resources.
- Engage our neighbors with compassion and respect.
- Prioritize transparency in our operations and funding.
- Continuously adapt to the changing needs of Montanans.
- Celebrate every success story, big or small, in our journey.
Why this city
Montana's vast landscapes and diverse communities present unique challenges and opportunities. In cities like Billings, Bozeman, and Great Falls, we find a mix of thriving families and individuals facing significant barriers to benefits enrollment. Known for its wide-open spaces and rural areas, many residents often miss out on critical support like TANF and WIC due to lack of awareness or accessibility. By focusing our efforts statewide, Big Sky Rides addresses these enrollment gaps, ensuring that every Montanan, from the Flathead Valley to the plains of eastern Montana, can access the resources they need to thrive.
Ready to make a difference? Whether you’re looking to donate a vehicle or need help navigating available benefits, Big Sky Rides is here for you. Every donation fuels our mission to connect Montanans with essential resources. Let's work together to strengthen our communities—donate today or explore our benefits-finder service, and be part of the change!