Where do I get help to acquire a vehicle for my son, for college? He starts in two months.?

Question

I am a single, working mother trying to help my son with his college finances. I am trying to struggle with the high price of utilities, food and rent, while my son is srtuggling with his college work. He needs a vehicle to travel to and from college. My truck has seen it's better days, it is a 1992 Ford. the local government angencies say I make too much money, which by all standards fall under the low income guidelines. Btw, I make only twenty thousand dollars a year, and after deductions, there is not much left. I appreciate all that read this. I just want my son to have a better life than I am having. Thank you and bless you all.

Answer 1

I don't know of any agencies that help with providing a car to a college student. Are there any other kids in the area going to the same college? If so, maybe he could ride back and forth with them. Or even someone who lives further away but passes through your area? He could pitch in gas money and ride along.

Also, is it possible he could get a part time job while in college? I know its tough but lots of students do that. If he could make enough money for a car payment, then you could probably go to one of those 'buy here, pay here' car lots and find him a cheap car.

I commend you for trying to make a better life for your son. College is a great start.

Answer 2

And you think the govt should give you money so your son can go to school? Is there public transportation available? How about a bike?

You are above poverty level, which I believe is about 10,000.

Answer 3

Why not have him ride public transportation?

Answer 4

I moved away from my family (far away) to go to school.  I received a very small grant, student loans I have to pay back and worked odd jobs for extra money.  I rode my bike and the bus along with the on campus "trolley".  It worked out fine.  If your son is serious about what he is doing, it will work out fine for him as well.  On campus housing was the best for me.  As soon as I moved off campus, things got much harder to work out.  When I moved back in with my parents at home to finish school there, it was by far the worst experience of them all.  I love my parents but I had a difficult time keeping focused when I had to worry about drama at home as well.  Good luck and it is commendable you are so concerned for his welfare.  He will make it happen.  Peace be with you and yours.

Answer 5

I understand your issue.  I was in your son's exact position about 15 years ago.  I had no financial assistance from my parents (because they couldn't afford it), the government wouldn't give me any money because they said my parents made too much, and I had no car.  

The best advice is to send him to an affordable state school.  Get federal student loans and live on campus.

I now have a college degree, Masters degree, and law degree.  While I will be paying off student loans for years to come, it was better than not going to college at all.  By the way, I never had a car until I was 22 years old.

Answer 6

He might try earning some money by working.