Please note! Applications are now closed for this program. We will announce any reopening of program applications. Thank you!

 

We've all been in a situation where we need to get somewhere but don't have a ride.

This is the reality for many people living in Chatham-Kent - relying on public transit, rides from friends and family members, and using taxis or ride sharing apps.

Rebuilding Wheels Rebuilding Lives (RWRL) is a program that provides a refurbished, used vehicle to families or an individual to help fight transportation barriers in Chatham-Kent.

Thanks to many community partners and volunteers, the RWRL program was able to provide their first vehicle in 2019 to an individual who required a reliable car. Her previous vehicle was no longer reliable for the commute to work between Wallaceburg & Chatham, required expensive repairs and did not have the means to purchase a new car. This one time gift allowed the recipient to maintain her employment, the piece of mind that she would be safe while driving and the freedom to go where she needed to be.

The Rebuilding Wheels Rebuilding Lives program is great example of how community comes together to support those who are caught in a difficult situation. All vehicles used to this program have been donated which provides the Special High Skills Major auto students real world experience and mentorship as they complete any repairs needed. The Chatham-Kent Public Library provides a database of repair guides that are vital to the students education and depending on the parts; local auto supply retailers aid in the cost of supplies. United Way of Chatham-Kent helps with fundraising and administrative support; while Family Service Kent oversees the application process. Before the keys are passed to the new owners, the Lally Group provide the vehicles final safety, and licensing.

With support of the Lally Group and James Stonehouse’s automotive class at John McGregor Secondary School a second vehicle will soon be ready. 

 

The application process is now open.  closed!

Thank you for your support.

If you are in need of support through the RWRL program, please download, print, and complete the application form. 

 

Once you have completed the form, you may submit it to Family Service Kent for review and approval by:

  • Mail:  RWRL c/o Family Service Kent 50 Adelaide Street South, Chatham, ON N7M 6K7
  • Fax:    519.354.5152 Attention: RWRL Applications
  • Email: [email protected]

 

In order to be eligible for the Rebuilding Wheels Rebuilding Lives, applicants must be able to prove:

  • Applicant must be living on low income and be a resident of Chatham-Kent
  • Applicant must be able to demonstrate that you have exhausted other funding opportunities
  • Applicant must have a valid Ontario driver’s license
  • Applicant must have a verifiable job
  • Applicant must be able to afford ongoing cost of car ownership

 

This program has been made possible due to the collaborative efforts of the following community partners: