Equipping Newcomers to Access Driver Education

Karena* fled Ukraine with her three children, leaving her husband behind to continue the fight against Russia. Her initial months here were challenging as she relied on others for rides to take her children to the doctor, go to the grocery store, and find work. Karena knew she needed to get a driver's license but had no idea where to start. It was then that a friend suggested reaching out to ReEstablish Richmond.

Our Transportation Independence program coordinator visited Karena at home for a two hour workshop to explain the process of getting a driver's license and connect her to study materials in her primary language. This critical support gave Karena the knowledge she needed to move forward. Equipped with realistic expectations and the tools to study on her own, she soon learned the rules for safe driving in Virginia and passed the learner's permit test.

Karena's next step was learning how to drive. The cost for driving lessons is high, so we provide a scholarship to reduce the financial burden for our clients. Learning and practicing safe driving skills took some time, but she is now confident behind the wheel.

The good news is that Karena's journey to getting a driver's license went smoothly! In fact, our  Driving in Virginia workshops are so effective that a record number of ReEstablish Richmond clients successfully passed the learner's permit test and earned a driver’s license last year.

In 2023, ReEstablish Richmond connected 110 clients with reputable driving schools for behind the wheel lessons. Your donation today will ensure that newcomers like Karena can get the driver education needed to become safe, confident drivers.   

* Name and some details have been changed to protect client identity. While this story may represent one individual's experience, it also reflects the common experiences of many newcomers.