Wheels for Work

To help address transportation barriers on the Lower Eastern Shore, the Lower Workforce Alliance (LSWA) launched the Wheels for Work program in 2024. Through a partnership with Back Street Bikes, a nonprofit based in Snow Hill, LSWA collected and repaired bicycles, then distributed them to community members who needed reliable transportation for employment.

In total, 12 bicycles were restored and distributed directly to participants. Deliveries were coordinated either by LSWA staff or in partnership with Back Street Bikes. Along with a bicycle, each participant received a backpack, helmet, reflective vest, reflectors, and lights.

Applications were submitted through case managers or referring partners, including Hope and Life Outreach (HALO), Back Street Bikes, Goodwill Chesapeake, Wicomico Public Library, Diakonia, and Help and Outreach Point of Entry (H.O.P.E.) Inc. To qualify, applicants were required to have either a current employer or a confirmed upcoming start date with an employer.

The program was made possible through grant funding from the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.

To date, Back Street Bikes continued the effort, fully integrating it into its ongoing programming for Snow Hill residents in need.