Goodwill aims to help more West Virginians own cars, keep jobs with new program

BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) – For many people in West Virginia, a lack of reliable transportation is a major roadblock to finding a steady job. One local company is trying to help with that problem.

While some people can’t afford to own and maintain their own vehicle, Goodwill is giving West Virginia residents a chance to ask for help.

Goodwill Industries of Kanawha Valley is giving West Virginians in 20 counties a chance to own a vehicle.

To qualify, you must make a $500 down payment, have no bankruptcy, no car loans, and be employed for 90 days.

Megan Diehl, Vice President of Brand Management for Goodwill Industries of Kanawha Valley, told 59News she hopes this program helps folks who struggle to find a safe car to get them back and forth from work.

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“If we can just maybe eliminate one of those barriers for West Virginia, maybe they can help relieve the other ones once they get into sustainable employment” said Diehl.

Diehl also said program members can eventually get money back, to help with maintaining their vehicle after it is paid off.

“The loan is secured through Goodwill. They make the payments. There is interest while they are making the payment. Once they’ve made that last payment and paid the car off in full, we will then reimburse them every penny of interest that they paid on the life of the loan” said Diehl to 59News.

The dream of owning a car is being made possible by Goodwill Industries of Kanawha Valley. Diehl hopes that this program will not only help people with travel, but also help people keep their jobs.

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