POUGHKEEPSIE ... As a single mother, Deniece works tirelessly to build a brighter future for herself and her children, working for individuals with disabilities. Even after a sudden cancer diagnosis and the loss of access to a vehicle brought a new set of challenges, she remained determined to work and support her family. But without reliable transportation, balancing work, appointments and everyday responsibilities became increasingly difficult.
Today, Deniece has one less obstacle standing in her way. After months of dedication and hands-on learning through the County’s “Way to Work” employment empowerment program, County Executive Sue Serino proudly presented Deniece and five other qualifying residents with keys to used vehicles during a ceremony held at the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board in Poughkeepsie. The vehicles will help recipients maintain employment, pursue higher-paying jobs, access higher education, and take advantage of opportunities that can lead to greater financial independence for themselves and their families.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Reliable transportation can make a world of difference, opening doors to opportunities that may have once felt out of reach. For today's recipients, these keys represent so much more than a vehicle. They represent hope, independence and the chance to move forward with one less worry. Each of these individuals has worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone, and I couldn't be prouder of all they've accomplished.”
Through a longstanding partnership between the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS) and the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board (DCWIB), the “Way to Work” program helps residents overcome transportation barriers that stand in the way of employment, educational opportunities, and greater financial independence. To qualify, participants must receive or be eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or have a household income below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, and demonstrate an employment related need for transportation.
With the goal of uplifting families out of low-income situations and reliance on temporary assistance, participants complete a series of workshops and training sessions designed to prepare them for long-term success, focusing on financial and vehicle literacy, credit improvement, budgeting, job readiness and career development. They also receive assistance with vehicle registration and insurance to prepare for the responsibilities of vehicle ownership. Upon successful completion of the program, qualifying participants receive a used vehicle. Today’s six cars were vehicles being retired from the Dutchess County Department of Public Works’ vehicle fleet. Each was carefully inspected by the department to ensure continued, reliable use. The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office and representatives from Northwell Health were also on hand to install child safety seats.
Along with Deniece, today's other recipients include:
The program's lasting impact is reflected in the continued progress of past participants, with almost all remaining off temporary assistance as they have worked toward greater financial independence. For each family that no longer receives assistance, the County saves $1,614 per month, which over the course of a year equals the cost of a used vehicle.
DCFS Commissioner Sabrina Jaar Marzouka said, “For 25 years, the ‘Way to Work’ program has helped families overcome challenges and take steps toward greater independence. By providing a range of tools and support, the program helps families not only address immediate challenges but also build a foundation for lasting stability. We are proud of today's recipients and remain committed to helping more families work toward brighter, more secure futures.”
Since the program’s inception in 2001, it has empowered more than 3,600 families overcoming transportation barriers, whether its awarding participants with a vehicle, making their vehicle more reliable through repairs or assisting in obtaining a driver’s license. To date, the program has provided 951 vehicles, supported 326 participants in obtaining learner's permits, 1,922 in completing driving experience classes, 532 in finishing the five-hour pre-licensing course, and 511 in successfully passing their road tests.
DCWIB Executive Director Louise McLoughlin said, “The journey to receiving a vehicle through ‘Way to Work’ requires dedication, commitment and a willingness to learn. Today's recipients have embraced that opportunity, investing their time and energy into building skills that will serve them well beyond this milestone. We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with Dutchess County and proud to play a role in helping these individuals take the next steps toward their goals.”
For more information about the “Way to Work” program and eligibility criteria, view the informational brochure available on the DCWIB website. Qualifying residents who are interested in the program, or have additional questions, can contact Taylor O’Donnell, Associate Director at the DCWIB, at taylor@dcwib.org or (845) 249-4642.
