Wheelz2Work turns over cars to low-income families in need of safe, reliable transportation to work or school while they are working toward self-sufficiency
The Times
The Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund recently announced a challenge grant to be awarded to those who donate a used car to the Bucks County Opportunity Council’s Wheelz2Work Program. The cars are turned over to low-income families in need of safe, reliable transportation to work or school while they are working toward self-sufficiency.
BCOC’s Economic Self Sufficiency Program is a highly successful program that moves people from poverty to self sufficiency by helping them, with one-on-one support of coaches, to create a strategic plan to leave poverty and all government assistance and be able to support their families.
To date, 44 used cars have been donated to self sufficiency clients, and the Epstein family is hoping to be able to help others currently on the waiting list. The program has been a lifeline for clients who have been derailed from pursuing additional training, job interviews, or applying for jobs at a greater distance from home because of unsafe or unreliable transportation.
Wheelz2Work is a partnership between BCOC, Bucks County Community College, and the Epstein Humanitarian Fund. Recipients of each vehicle have been screened first by coaches who are working with clients on a regular schedule and who can attest to their commitment and progress.
As an extra incentive to donate a car, the Epstein Fund will issue a check for between $400 and $700 to the first 10 people who donate a car before Nov. 10. Donors can also receive a tax deduction at book value since the car is not being sold.
For details on how to participate in the Wheelz2Work Program, visit bcoc.org/support-us/wheelz2wok or contact Eileen Albillar at 215–345–8175, ext. 209 or ealbillar@bcoc.org.
