Goodwheels

Program Overview

Limited transportation resources is one of the most frequent barriers keeping TANF (welfare) recipients from going to work. In response, the State of Maine Department of Human Services' ASPIRE Program has partnered with Goodwill Industries and KeyBank to create the Good Wheels to Work initiative. The program offers low interest auto loans for working welfare recipients. Participants referred to the program can borrow up to $5,000 at 5% interest over a three-year period, in which to purchase a reliable used car.

Each eligible participant meets with a Goodwill Transportation Specialist to review transportation needs and options including the type of car to purchase and a budget plan. The Transportation Specialists then assist with loan applications, vehicle selection, insurance purchases, and vehicle registration. The final step is to put together a maintenance schedule to help keep the new car running smoothly.

Working ASPIRE clients are referred to the Good Wheels to Work Program by their DHS ASPIRE Case Manager.

Goodwill's Transportation Specialists work throughout the State of Maine out of the following offices:

Augusta: 207-626-0170
Bangor: 207-945-4063
Lewiston: 207-777-7472
Portland: 207-774-6323