Two local families face a less uncertain economic future thanks to the donation of two vehicles and a program through the United Way.
"Access to transportation is a significant issue for many people in our community," says United Way CEO, Lorraine Goddard. "This creates substantial challenges for many individuals and their families who are living in low-income, especially if they are seeking to gain or maintain employment."
Shawn Barton has a full-time job but did not have a reliable vehicle. After a battle with cancer four years ago, he was not able to afford to repair his previous vehicle.
April Quinton was in a similar position. The single mother of two children was trying to balance a part-time job with the need to get her children to school. Having a vehicle will help her get her full license and work more hours.
So far, nine vehicles have been donated to families in need through the Rebuilding Wheels Rebuilding Lives program. The program is a partnership between the United Way, Benson Auto Parts, Beverly Tire & Auto, Jeff Smith's Country Chevrolet, Ecole secondaire catholique E.J. Lajeunesse, and Family Services Windsor-Essex.
Anyone who needs a vehicle can apply through Family Services Windsor-Essex. Students at E.J. Lajeunesse help repair donated vehicles.
