September 18, 2001
For Immediate Release
Contact: Holly Brooker
(845) 255-1450 xt.1301 Qualified area residents in rural communities who have trouble getting to work because of limited public transportation may now be provided with a car, thanks to Wheels to Work, a new program in operation at Ulster BOCES. “Ulster County is a large, rural community, and you really need a car to get to work,” says Elizabeth Hayter, assistant director for Ulster BOCES Adult Education. “This program helps provide people with transportation so they can go to work and maintain their jobs.”

The Wheels to Work program, which began in February 2001, is funded by a New York State grant. Automobiles in various conditions are donated by members of the community. They are then evaluated and repaired by Ulster BOCES automotive technicians. There is currently a waiting list for those who need cars.

Qualified Wheels to Work applicants must be currently employed and in need of a car to remain employed. Along with the car, applicants are given free courses in basic car maintenance and managing their finances so that they will be able to budget for car insurance and gasoline. Driver’s education and defensive driving courses for insurance purposes are also provided at no cost for those applicants who need them.

In addition to employment, an applicant must be a New York State resident, have a clean driving record for at least two years, and provide two verifiable references. Other criteria for qualification include income levels and the presence of minor children (or a pregnant woman) in the household.

“This program helps people move on with their lives,” says Hayter.

For an application and information about Wheels to Work, call Dianne Sleight, coordinator of the Wheels to Work program at Ulster BOCES at (845) 331-0902. Also, please call Dianne Sleight if you have a car to be considered for the program. Donations of cars to Wheels to Work are tax deductible.