Minneapolis, MN

THE LIFT GARAGE

EIN 45-4444338

Housing, Food & Basic Needs Family Support Services Low-income People experiencing homelessness

Mission

The Lift Garage offers people a vehicle out of poverty by providing low-cost quality car repair, connecting with community partners to strengthen support networks, and linking customers with needed resources.

IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) public charity Contributions are tax-deductible

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About THE LIFT GARAGE

The Lift Garage is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Minneapolis that provides affordable, safety-focused auto repair to low-income Minnesotans who meet 150% of the Federal Poverty Guideline. The organization operates a community-centered garage (five bays) plus a mobile van and express services to keep people safely on the road and connected to work, housing, and essential services. Founded by social worker-turned-auto-technician Cathy Heying in 2013, The Lift combines repair services with resource navigation and short-term transportation supports to reduce the financial burden of vehicle ownership and help customers maintain employment and housing stability. The organization emphasizes dignity, respect, and equitable service delivery, with a strong focus on serving customers experiencing homelessness and low-income households.

Notable achievements

Scale of service (FY24)

Served over 1,700 customers in fiscal year 2024 and operated regular appointments, mobile van inspections, and weekly Express Services to reach low-income drivers across the Twin Cities.

Financial impact (FY24)

Saved customers nearly $700,000 in repair costs in fiscal year 2024 by offering labor at a reduced hourly rate and parts at a low markup, making essential repairs affordable.

Comprehensive transportation supports

In FY24 provided a mix of transportation supports alongside repairs — including bus tokens, Uber rides, towing assistance, mobile inspections, and express lane services — to keep people safe and mobile while they address vehicle needs.

At a glance

Total assets: $2.8M
Annual revenue: $2.5M
Tax status: 501(c)(3)Public charity
EIN: 45-4444338
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Website: www.theliftgarage.org
On Mahalo since: September 2026

Financial figures from the IRS Business Master File, the IRS’s registry of tax-exempt organizations.

Recognition

Featured by national and local media outlets (including TV and print) highlighting the model of nonprofit auto repair and its role in supporting low-income neighbors.

Recipient of philanthropic grants and community foundation support that have funded service expansion and the mobile inspection van.

Recognized and listed by regional nonprofit networks and philanthropic partners for community impact and collaboration.

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