FACT receives $50,000 for welfare-to-work program
Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation recently received notification of a $50,000 state allocation that will be used to continue the ongoing welfare-to-work transportation program that provides transportation assistance to low-income people. According to FACT general manager George Hardy, FACT’s welfare-to-work program has been ongoing in Fayette County for several years, although there was a service interruption last year after the state didn’t allocate any money. Hardy did not return calls to provide a figure reflecting how many individuals utilize the program in Fayette County. The program is funded by the state Department of Transportation.
After the service lapse, Hardy said some people either stopped working or found other means to go to work. Since the program resumed, Hardy said no one has been denied transportation.
The FACT allocation is among $2.2 million allocated to assist individuals participating in the program in 31 counties.
Gov. Edward G. Rendell made the funding announcement earlier this week. “This program can be the difference for people who have no other way to get to work or take their children to day care,” Rendell said. “This funding is critical to helping these individuals overcome barriers that have prevent them from being employed. It also gives them the opportunity to achieve independence. This is a vital investment in their future and their children’s future.”
Modes of transportation include fixed-route bus service, shared-ride services and volunteers who use their own vehicles. County agencies, transportation organizations and private transportation providers are eligible for grants through this program.
Hardy said FACT works with other community assistance agencies such as Community Action, Occupational Vocational Rehabilitation and the Department of Public Welfare to use funding for the welfare-to-work program. He said FACT tries to provide curbside service and find some fixed routes for people as a way to help the most consumers.
Hardy said Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Spa is an example of one business that utilizes the welfare-to-work service. He said FACT bus routes at 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. are utilized to Nemacolin Woodlands.
Washington, Greene and Westmoreland counties also received $240,000 through the Washington County Transportation Authority for the welfare-to-work program.