“Ways to Work” Helps Move Working Parents Toward a Brighter Future

In the Driver’s Seat!

In December of 2003, Diane Radek was alone, pregnant, and residing in Nevada. When her family, who had recently returned to Pennsylvania, suggested she do the same, Diane took their advice and followed them home. She now had a new child and a reliable vehicle but was unable to keep up with the car payments so she voluntarily surrendered her vehicle.  

With access to the public transportation system limited and her need for a reliable form of transportation, Diane sought the help of her caseworker at EARN (Employment, Advancement and Retention Network) and was referred to Family Services of Western Pennsylvania’s” Ways to Work” program. 

Part of a national program and operated locally by Family Services for more than seven years,  Ways to Work provides loans at an  affordable interest rate to working parents for the purchase of a pre-owned car (up to $4000), or for the repair of their current one (loans range from $500 to $1000.) 

Ways to Work loans—and the cars they are used to purchase—are critical to these families’ economic future. Far from being a luxury item in our society, a car often is a necessity for getting or keeping a job. In urban areas, public transportation often does not meet the needs of low-income workers who have multi-point commutes or work night shifts, and in rural areas public transportation may not exist at all. 

A car can help struggling families to find and keep employment, stabilize their lives and finances, and transport their children to child care, school and youth activities. The loan itself is also a building block to a stronger financial situation, encouraging discipline and leading families to become more involved with mainstream and affordable Financial institutions. 

“My Ways to Work loan has enabled me to be more flexible in my work schedule and to be punctual,” said Diane  “Having this vehicle allowed me to secure a more promising position and no longer limit my job search. This program made that possible. I am very grateful for Ways to Work. I can now start planning a more productive life.” 

For complete details on the Ways to Work program, call toll free 1-866-965-5929 ext. 650 (Additional information, including a pre-application, is available by accessing  our website at http://www.fswp.org/index.htmand clicking on the Community Counseling link under the “I’m Looking For” tab.  

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Family Services of Western PA is a  nonprofit organization based in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County that  provides more than thirty-eight different services to families and individuals in the region, including a wide range of clinical and general counseling for children, adults, and families as well as a variety of community based social services and specialized services provided in clinics, schools and community settings.

Has your family been  touched by Family Services of Western PA?  We love to hear positive stores about the impact of local nonprofit organizations.  Leave us a comment and share your story!