Ways to Work

Serves low-income parents in Brown County

Ways to Work is a nationwide program that provides small loans to low-income parents who cannot get loans elsewhere. The purpose of the loan is to help families pay for the purchase of a reliable used car to assist in sustaining employment.

The Problem…

Despite working hard at low paying jobs, a growing number of families are teetering on the edge of poverty. Life’s unpredictable expenses, such as repeated car repairs, can plunge a family living on marginal income into crisis. To some, having a reliable car means the difference between getting and keeping a decent job.

The Solution…

Family Services’ Ways to Work program helps families in need purchase a used car. Through the Ways to Work program, qualified, low-income applicants can receive a loan of up to $4,000 to help them remain employed. Approved applicants make monthly loan payments over a two year period with low interest rates.

Who Qualifies for Assistance?

To participate in the program, applicants must: 

   -  Be a Brown County resident

   -  Be 18 years of age or older

   -  Be an involved parent

   -  Be employed a minimum of 20 hours per week for a minimum of six months.

   -  Have a household income of less than 80% of the area’s mean income

   -  Be unable to get a loan from a bank or credit union.

   -  Agree in writing to repay the Ways to Work loan within two years.

How do I apply for a Ways to Work loan?

To be considered for the Ways to Work program, applicants should call our Loan Coordinator at 920-436-4360 ext. 1397 to set up an appointment. If your family meets the eligibility requirements, a packet will be sent to you containing an application and the necessary verifications. You may also download and print these forms by clicking here.

Once you have completed the application and gathered the required documents, contact the Ways to Work office to schedule an interview to review your application, verifications, budget, and credit report in detail. Your request will then be evaluated by an anonymous loan committee without revealing any of your identifying information.

If your request is approved, you will be promptly notified by the Loan Coordinator, who will then advise you on the steps remaining to complete your loan. If your request is denied, an Adverse Action Notice will be sent to you within five business days. Denials can be appealed as outlined in the Adverse Action Notice.

For any questions or additional information, please contact the Ways to Work office at 920-436-4360 ext. 1397.

View a Ways to Work Brochure: English / Spanish

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