Without a personal vehicle, routine tasks like getting to work, securing quality child care, attending medical appointments, and running to the store for groceries become massive hurdles.
Many people in Story County face transportation barriers, making other needs, such as food, a steady income, and childcare, less accessible. While Ames offers several forms of public transportation, many needs still go unmet—especially for those with specific work schedules and for residents of other Story County communities where options are far more limited.
That’s why United Way of Story County and Ames Ford Lincoln partner for Wheels For Work program. The program takes donated vehicles, ensures they are safe and repaired, and provides them to local families to provide the independence they need to thrive. Since beginning the Wheels for Work program, more than 80 families have been able to achieve long-lasting independence by having their own vehicle.
We are here to help you get where you need to go! Please be aware that meeting certain eligibility criteria is required, and due to high demand, there is usually a waiting list for vehicles. Applications are accepted exclusively through our network of partners, so please contact one of the agencies listed below to start your application process.
ACCESS
Current clients only
Good Neighbor Emergency Assistance
Cari McPartland, 515-296-1449
MICA (Mid-Iowa Community Action)
Jodie Linse, 515-956-3333
The Salvation Army
Kathy Pinkerton, 515-3567
Story County General Assistance
McKenna Niemeyer, 515-663-2943
For more information about making a tax deductible donation of your vehicle to the program, please contact Nick Johnson or Casey Johnson at Ames Ford at (515) 233-1913. They will guide you through the process and ensure your donation is taken care of.
To apply to receive a vehicle, the applicant must meet all of the following qualifications:
