Mississippi to provide CDL training for homeless people
The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) started working on the education program that would help homeless find jobs in the trucking industry.
The program called “D.R.I.V.E.” (Developing Responsible Individuals with Valuable Education). MDOT and partner groups provide housing, job training, and employment for Mississippi’s homeless.
According to the authorities, all participants in the program receive a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and get a job through the MDOT Public Transport Division.
“MDOT Public Transportation and the Mississippi Housing Corporation have teamed up with partners to use D.R.I.V.E. service to reduce the number of homeless people and fill the trucker shortage in the state,” the message stated.
D.R.I.V.E. partner organizations include:
- MDOT
- Mississippi Home Corp.
- Grace House Ministries
- Driver Improvement Agency
- City of Jackson Homeless Program
- Catholic Charities
- Salvation Army
Montresa Harney raised 7 children being homeless, but “D.R.I.V.E.” changed her life beyond recognition.
Harney obtained a Class C CDL through the program and works in public transportation.
“I can drive anything under 26,000 pounds like a school bus, JATRAN bus, light vehicle that takes older people to appointments… It was very rewarding, especially the patients I met. I love talking to them, they love talking to me, it was very rewarding,” Harney told.
Harney plans to upgrade her license and move into trucking.
The woman encourages other homeless people to take the chance to start a normal life.
