Everywoman Opportunity Center, Inc.

About the program

Everywoman’s Wheels for Work Program provides loans to low income families in Erie and Niagara counties who do not qualify for conventional loans. The program offers working families the opportunity to obtain reliable transportation while they establish or improve credit. Wheels for Work loans are serviced by First Niagara Bank.

Everywoman will help your family identify its strengths and needs, work with you to improve your money management skills, and help you reach your other life goals.

• When you own reliable transportation, it’s easier to get to and from work, keep your job, get a better job, and pursue new opportunities.
• Successfully obtaining and paying off a Wheels for Work loan will help you build a positive credit history, helping your family to reach its financial goals.

• Working parents with a valid driver’s license (and a clean record) who reside in Erie or Niagara county.
• Applicants must be employed at least 25 hours a week, must meet the program’s income guidelines.
• Successful applicants will have no current judgments or bankruptcies.

The first step is to attend a Wheels for Work orientation session. Erie County residents can choose between sessions at Everywoman’s Buffalo or Tonawanda offices. Niagara County residents will go to our Niagara Falls office. Then you will:

• Fill out the program application, get references, and obtain all required documentation.
•  Make an appointment with an EWOC counselor bring your documentation!
• Attend a budgeting workshop.
• Submit your application to the loan committee.
• Choose your car!

Your EWOC Counselor will work with you during the life of the loan.

• Ongoing career and financial counseling are available.
• If you lose your job, EWOC can provide job search assistance.