On October 26, Denver, Colorado-based Sunflower Bank announced its partnership with Irving-based On the Road Lending, a nonprofit auto lender that provides character-based affordable loans for reliable cars. The $525,000 investment—with an additional $25,000 designated for operating support—will enable On the Road Lending to bring its services to rural communities where there are limited or no public transportation options. The two companies identified the importance of addressing the significant transportation needs gap that exists in rural Texas. Sunflower Bank operates 25 branches in Texas.
“By expanding its reach, On the Road Lending will be able to benefit many more individuals in underserved communities,” says Danny Spears, senior vice president and Community Reinvestment Act director at Sunflower Bank. “Low- and moderate-income borrowers face a significant gap in affordable transportation opportunities, and we are happy to partner with On the Road Lending as part of its unique solution.”
“A car loan through On the Road Lending is life-changing because owning a reliable car increases job opportunities by removing transportation barriers,” says Lonnie Smith, On the Road Lending’s president. “It also improves the quality of life through better access to health care, education and even healthier food choices.”
Established in 1892, Sunflower Bank operates 74 banking offices in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, Arizona and Washington.
Pictured above: Michelle Corson, On the Road Lending CEO; Gloria Sanderson, Sunflower Bank vice president/CRA community development officer; Lonnie Smith, On the Road Lending president; and Jorden Moxley, Sunflower Bank vice president/team lead–North Texas portfolio managers.
