I'm working for a temp agency now, but I know I can get a permanent position now that I have reliable transportation. It makes all the difference. Senator Carper is very aware of the value of helping welfare recipients become self-sufficient. As Governor he created Delaware's A Better Chance Welfare Reform program that has helped thousands of individuals leave the welfare rolls for work. He also personally donated two vehicles to the Cars for Careers program.
Transportation is an especially difficult barrier for Sussex County residents to overcome.
Public transportation is limited, and the county is still largely rural. Cars for Careers gives welfare recipients living in Sussex County a chance to own their own car so they can get and keep jobs. Through the program, the First State Community Action Agency, a non-profit agency under contract with DHSS, procures cars in good working order from companies and private individuals. The cars are then sold at low cost to welfare recipients who have been carefully screened to assure the car will help them get and keep a job. The program also helps with car insurance and vehicle maintenance for one year.