As many are aware, the last two years have been extremely challenging when looking to purchase vehicles due to supply chain issues and an increase in the cost to purchase. In the case of The Arc NCR, the agency has over 50 vehicles throughout its programs to support people in accessing the services and support they need. Our organization has identified at least 6 accessible vehicles that will need to be replaced in the near future. The cost range per vehicle ranges between $65,000—$120,000.  Along with the increased costs to replace vehicles, the cost for maintenance and gas has skyrocketed. Some Arc NCR programs have been unable to support people due to a lack of accessible transportation, as finding these types of vehicles has become more and more challenging.  

For perspective on The Arc NCR’s transportation services, here are some of the estimated total annual expenses from 2022:

• $107,261 for fuel
• $98,000 for insurance
• $40,000 for vehicle maintenance

People with disabilities have been historically underserved regarding transportation needs. Without access to transportation, people with disabilities have a greater chance of being unable to attain employment opportunities, as well as less access to health care, education, and community engagement activities.  Not only does this increase the chance that someone with disabilities will be unemployed or of low income, but it also increases the chance for isolation, loneliness, and mental health challenges. People supported by The Arc NCR want access to jobs, friends, family, and their community like any other person. Transportation, and specifically accessible transportation, is greatly needed to make this happen.

Accessible transportation needs include:

• Wheelchair lift or ramp accommodations
• Hydraulic/mechanical lift or ramp training and maintenance
• Transfer tools and body mechanics training
• Specialized safety belts, fasteners and handrails
• Specialized driver safety training and emergency preparedness
• Regular accessible equipment inspections
• Continual, routine maintenance checks and reporting

Every dollar matters, and to see the specific impact you can have, here are examples of how your contribution can contribute to this campaign:

• $5,000 — Contribute toward the down payment or purchase of a needed accessible vehicle.
• $2,500 – Funds the replacement or purchase of a wheelchair lift for an accessible vehicle.
• $1,500 – Funds the cost of full-service vehicle maintenance, including oil change, spark plugs, coolant, replacing coils, refrigerant, gaskets, brake pad and brake rotor replacements.
• $1,000 – Funds cover mandated third party wheelchair lift inspections and state inspections for 5 vehicles.
• $500 – Funds Department of Transportation (DOT) mandated training, includes specialized driver safety training and emergency preparedness.
• $250 – Funds cover costs of interior safety equipment in an accessible vehicle, such as specialized safety belts, fasteners, and handrails.
• $100 – Funds cover fuel for an accessible bus for our Community Partners day program for one week.
• $50 – Funds cover general preventative maintenance (oil and filter change) of accessible vehicles.