Many people have experienced that dreaded moment when their car wouldn’t start – often at the most inopportune time. For Jon*, it was on the day of a long-awaited job interview when first impressions mattered. Without reliable transportation, he knew his chances of landing a job were slim.
Thankfully, there’s an organization in York that offers people like Jon a second chance.
Founded by local churches in 1983, New Hope Ministries (NHM) opened as a safe place for people seeking assistance during a global recession. Over 40 years later, the mission of NHM has expanded to meet the needs of communities across central Pennsylvania. Last year, the organization served over 25,000 people through various programs designed to empower youth and adults to lead a successful life. 
In 2024, a grant from YCCF helped launch the Hope Rides Program to assist thousands of people like Jon who lack access to reliable and affordable transportation. NHM’s Hope Rides Program is able to provide loaner vehicles to people who are trying to secure a steady job, with a goal of helping at least 50 individuals in York County this year. Transportation can be a major barrier for low-income families seeking and retaining employment. According to the 2024 United Way of York County Transportation Study, over 6% or 10,078 households in York County do not have a vehicle available to them. With 84% of York County residents living in “car-dependent” areas, access to an automobile is essential for maintaining employment.
For those who own a car that’s undrivable, NHM offers financial assistance to cover vehicle repair costs, insurance and registration fees, and even driving courses. The Hope Rides program also offers alternative transportation solutions such as bicycles, bus passes, and ride-share assistance.
I believe there should be a place you can go when life gets hard,” shared Eric Saunders, executive director of NHM.
“With this grant from the Foundation and generous gifts from the community, we now own a fleet of 15 loaner vehicles, and we’re seeing firsthand what a game-changer it can be when you help alleviate somebody’s transportation worries.”
*Name has been changed to protect guests of NHM
