Salina, KS — GotWheels, a new Hot Wheels-style car-exchange program for children, is rolling out across three local businesses, with the first compact “car library” now installed and active at Calvin Customs & Hot Rod Repair, 325 N. Santa Fe Ave. The program is designed so kids can take a car at no cost and anyone can join by leaving a car for others to enjoy.
Salina311 is supplying Hot Wheels and overseeing promotion. The partner host sites are:
- Calvin Customs & Hot Rod Repair, 325 N. Santa Fe Ave — first unit installed and live now.
- Larry’s Transmission, 801 N. 13th St. — display board finished and ready to host a unit.
- Nu Image Audio, 340 S. Broadway Blvd — board build is scheduled and installation is expected midweek.
Each unit is a small, weather-resistant display mounted at the storefront for easy, low-maintenance access. Organizers said all three sites will be monitored with a live video feed security system to help protect the units and ensure program safety. Salina311 will provide stock for each library as well as promote the car exchange program.
The concept is straightforward and community-focused: children may take a Hot Wheels car free of charge, and community members may leave a car to keep the exchange going. Program leaders say the idea is meant to be simple, playful, and inclusive, giving local families a low-cost way to share toys.
Salina311 spoke with Calvin Calp of Calvin Customs about why his shop started this program. “I want to spread some joy and positivity. Everyone these days is fighting and suing each other, let’s see if we can bring something positive to our community,” Calp said.
A special shoutout to Trena Loux Lackey, who has helped to fill the boxes with Hot Wheels for the initial rollout. Her support helped ensure the Calvin Customs unit opened with plenty of cars for kids to take and swap.
Follow Salina311 for updates on new GotWheels locations and upcoming car-exchange promotions.
