JACKSON, Tenn. — It’s a pivotal moment for a local woman who will no longer have to take the bus or rely on others to get to work.
Shawanda Green can now drive to work in her very own car.
“I mean, I’m happy. I’m excited. I’m free to be able to do. I’m independent, and I love being independent and being able to do things,” Green told us.
Green received her new ride Thursday as part of the “Wheels To Work” program, through her employer — Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee.
The program was started in 2013 after recognizing that many employees faced transportation barriers to get to their workplace.
“We are able to take the donation of a vehicle and turn it into the transforming power of work by helping people,” said Danny Rhodes, Director of Donation Acquisitions for Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee.
Green has been an employee at Goodwill for nearly seven years, and has taken the public bus system or gotten rides from others every day.
“Ten years of leaning on somebody and now I’m finally… I can get my keys and go!” Green said.
There were also many emotions during this special moment.
Green said to receive her new car on this day was extra meaningful, because Thursday was a special person’s heavenly birthday.
“My oldest sister’s birthday, it couldn’t have happened at a better time,” Green said.
Goodwill accepts vehicle donations from individuals who may want to get rid of their cars, trucks, vans, boats, and more.
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