The City of Sarasota, in partnership with nonprofit financial institution Manatee Community Federal Credit Union, will host an open house aimed at educating residents about the low-cost financial services available to them, including the Reliable Ride Transportation Initiative. Through the City’s partnership with Manatee Community Federal Credit Union, Sarasota residents of all credit levels can qualify for a low-interest vehicle loan through the Reliable Ride initiative. Attendees at the open house can pre-qualify for a loan and participate in a variety of other banking services. “Our goal is to provide more opportunities to the unbanked, underbanked and underserved members of our community,” said Economic Development General Manager Steve Stancel. “Through our collaboration with Manatee Community Federal Credit Union, which specializes in bringing credit and financial services to underserved areas, we can help our residents secure reliable transportation and achieve greater financial stability.” The City and credit union will also team up to host an all-day car sale on March 14 at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex. There, the public can browse a variety of certified, pre-owned vehicles from reputable area car dealers and work with the credit union’s auto adviser to negotiate a deal with a low-cost warranty and manageable monthly payments.

The open house will be 4-8 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 34th St. The public is welcome to stop by, enjoy free refreshments, meet with the team from the credit union and learn about the new banking options now available to City residents. Those who can’t make it to the Feb. 20 open house can also stop by the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex during additional banking hours with the credit union from 3:30-7:30 p.m. on Feb. 27 or March 5 to learn more or to pre-qualify for an auto loan.

For more information about access to financial services through this initiative, contact Redevelopment Specialist Rowena Elliott at 941-263-6284.

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