Owning a car is often a stepping stone toward job security and prosperity. Unfortunately, car ownership also influences a person’s ability to find and retain a decent job. A growing number of jobs are located outside of urban centers, on the beltways and in suburban communities, areas with weak or nonexistent public transportation. Without a car, many jobs are unreachable, and many small business ideas are unachievable. Access to a vehicle is also essential for meeting the basic necessities of life, such as obtaining medical care or buying groceries, especially in rural areas. Latino families in particular encounter barriers to purchasing a car. They are consistently targeted by unscrupulous marketing and dealers.

All Content © 2010 NCLR. All Rights Reserved