Transportation Assistance Program

Mission for Area People’s Transportation Assistance (ALICE) program removes transportation barriers so working Muskegon County residents can obtain and keep employment. Eligible ALICE neighbors (employed 23+ hours/week or with a verified start date) may receive fuel-only gas cards, help securing IDs and registration/tab renewals, critical vehicle repairs coordinated with Dexter’s Garage, and required uniforms/PPE (e.g., steel-toe boots). Gas card amounts are based on commute distance and vehicle type and are monitored in partnership with Wesco to ensure fuel-only use.

Access is simple and fast: applicants can apply online, by phone, or in person; referrals also arrive through the Community Information Exchange (CIE). MAP verifies employment and required documentation (income, insurance/registration, repair quotes, job offer/schedule) and prioritizes emergencies, enabling participants to start on time and sustain reliable transportation through their first paychecks.

Alignment with United Way mission/priorities
This program squarely advances United Way of the Lakeshore’s Economic Mobility → Transportation priority by increasing access to jobs and career advancement for ALICE households. Reliable transportation is foundational to steady income—helping working families meet basic needs and move toward stability—directly supporting United Way’s mission to build thriving communities and its bold goal of helping more families