Pocono News Section

Stimulus Money Could Get You Into a New Car

Stimulus Money Could Get You Into a New Car - Friday, March 5, 2010 at 3:08PM EST

Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Friday, Mar 5, 2010 @ 04:08pm EST
STROUD TOWNSHIP, MONROE COUNTY - A car could help people drive down the road to employment. "If they don't have a way to get to work they can't work," said Ruth Piancone. She's the Housing Transportation Coordinator for the Pocono Alliance.

Piancone noted that many people want to work but don't have transportation. She said, "Monroe County is so rural and spread out."

But now there's help. Monroe County got federal stimulus money that could help you buy or repair a car. Paincone said, "We had the opportunity to apply for this grant - we were awarded it and we're very happy."

The Pocono Alliance got more than $50,000 stimulus dollars for a "Vehicle Assistance Program." The program will give you up to $1,000 to buy a new car or $500 to repair a car you already own.

Jim Fixl of Ted's Used Cars in Stroud Township reacted, "It not only help the community get back to work - it also helps us as a business owner to sell more cars."

He said similar programs have been successful. He remarked, "I've had people hug me on the lot - give me a kiss in my office jump up and down when they leave with the automobile. It's great."

The Vehicle Assistance program is for people without children who earn less than $20,660 a year.

It will help people get into the driver's seat and steer their lives in a new direction.

The Vehicle Assistance Program can also help you with mileage reimbursement or insurance. Plus it can help you get driving instruction.

You can request an application by calling 570-517-3954.