Many people take reliable transportation for granted. But to some, owning a car means the difference between getting or keeping a job.

Ways to Work is a proven, innovative vehicle loan program that provides small loans to low-income parents who cannot get loans elsewhere. The purpose of the transportation loan is to pay for a car purchase or repair that could otherwise interfere with the ability to keep a job or stay in school.

Reliable transportation is essential for working individuals and families, but the cost of purchasing or repairing a car can be a challenge, especially for those with less than perfect credit histories.

A Ways to Work vehicle loan offers a solution by providing loans at an affordable interest rate. The loan can be used to purchase a pre-owned vehicle or to repair a vehicle you already own. A family of four could earn $50,000 and still qualify.

Here's how the program works:

• Complete an application online at www.pawaystowork.org, or by calling the office that serves your county to receive an application through the mail (see contact us page for details)
• A loan coordinator will guide you through the loan application process by helping you complete the necessary paperwork.
• You must participate in a financial literacy class where you'll learn about budgeting, credit and debt management.
• Low-interest loans in amounts of up to $8,000 are available for the purchase of a pre-owned car, or up to $1,000 to repair a vehicle you already own.
• Monthly loan payments vary from six (6) to thirty (30) months, depending on how much you borrow and your ability to make payments.
• Monthly loan payment history is reported to the credit bureau. Making payments on time, every month can raise your credit score.