East Hudson Valley News

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino expressed, “For parents to be successful and raise healthy families, reliable transportation is key – whether it’s to get to and from work, to take their children to medical appointments or to other school or family commitments. Each of today’s seven recipients have earned the vehicle they’ll drive away in. They have each invested time and effort to the commitment of making a better life for their families and themselves. Dutchess County is proud to give these families an opportunity to flourish.”

DCFS Commissioner Sabrina Jaar Marzouka stated, “Dutchess County residents who are looking for a better life – and who commit to making it a reality – have found success through ‘Way to Work’ for more than 20 years. Our department is so proud of the program and the families it has empowered, as they’re examples of the lives DFCS enhances each day.”

DCWIB Executive Director Louise McLoughlin highlighted, “Building on more than two decades of success, ‘Way to Work’ continues to connect participants willing to commit to the program and take the steps necessary to become successful. The Workforce Investment Board is proud of our partnership with Dutchess County, providing reliable transportation to residents seeking self-sufficiency, and we’re eager to see the program continue to make a real impact on so many lives.”

Poughkeepsie – Seven local residents in Dutchess County have earned vehicles through the “Way to Work” program, a partnership between Dutchess County’s Department of Community & Family Services (DCFS) and the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board (DCWIB). The program aims to assist residents receiving or eligible to receive public assistance in overcoming transportation challenges to improve their employment prospects and quality of life.

The recipients of the program, including single mothers and a young woman about to age out of the foster care system, were presented with the keys to their vehicles by Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino. The program, established in 2001 and formerly known as “Wheels to Work,” provides reliable transportation for low-income residents to access and maintain employment.

“Way to Work” focuses on empowering participants with transportation solutions and provides various components such as connections to public transit options, financial literacy seminars, and car care literacy workshops. Participants are selected based on their work-related transportation needs, temporary assistance requirements, and commitment to financial independence.

Since its inception, the program has benefited over 3,500 families, providing 927 cars along with registration and car insurance deposits. Additionally, it has facilitated driving experience classes, pre-licensing classes, state road test preparation, and vehicle repairs for program participants.

Individuals interested in the program can find more information on eligibility criteria and requirements on the DCWIB website or by contacting taylor@dcwib.org. The success stories of the program demonstrate the positive impact it has had on the lives of Dutchess County residents striving for self-sufficiency and a better future.