A dozen single mothers in the Twin Cities received a gift this week that many would consider a Christmas miracle. In a heartwarming ceremony, these women were handed the keys to brand-new cars, offering them an unexpected solution to a challenging and often overwhelming problem.
This generous act was made possible through the Wheels for Women program at Newgate School, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit that provides free auto repair training to underserved young adults. The nonprofit has been refurbishing donated vehicles since the 1990s, and the cars are then given to single mothers who need reliable transportation.
A Dream Come True for Ondrea Watts and Other Recipients
For Ondrea Watts, a single mother of four from St. Paul, the gift of a minivan was a true lifesaver. “It’s been tough getting my kids ready for school in the cold, relying on buses to get us where we need to go. This car is the miracle my family has been praying for,” Watts shared. “I can’t wait to see the looks on my kids’ faces when I pick them up from school in our new minivan. This is beyond anything I could have imagined.”
The Wheels for Women program has been a lifeline for over 700 families since its inception. By refurbishing donated vehicles, Newgate School provides not only the gift of a car but also a path forward to greater independence and stability. Kelly Gulbrandson, from Apple Autos, a program partner, spoke about the deep relief that these cars provide. “When you hand them the keys to the car, it’s like you can see the weight lifting from their shoulders. For many of them, this is life-changing.”
More Than Just a Car: Gifts for the Mind and Spirit
The cars weren’t the only gifts these mothers received. Each car was packed with thoughtful presents, including self-care gift bags aimed at encouraging these women to prioritize their own well-being. Dr. Mohiba Tareen, from Tareen Dermatology, a program sponsor, explained why self-care is so important for these mothers. “As women, especially mothers, we often neglect ourselves while taking care of everyone else. This is just a small way to remind them to take time for their own health and happiness.”
The gift bags contained items that encouraged relaxation and self-pampering, helping to ensure that these mothers feel cared for as they take on the challenges of daily life. It’s a reminder that supporting these women goes beyond simply providing material needs—it’s about nourishing their mental and emotional health too.
Wheels for Women: Supporting Single Mothers in Need
To qualify for the Wheels for Women program, single mothers must be working or enrolled in school full-time while making less than $35,000 a year. This program was designed to ease the burden of those who are juggling family responsibilities with limited financial resources. In many cases, a car is not just a convenience—it’s an essential tool for a mother to be able to support her family, get to work, attend school, and take care of her children’s needs.
The program’s continued success relies heavily on partnerships with local businesses, such as Nice Ride and Apple Autos, and community organizations. Together, they help make these life-changing gifts possible for mothers who need them the most.
A Bright Future Ahead for These Families
The emotional impact of these gifts is immeasurable. For Watts and the other mothers who received cars, the sense of relief and joy was palpable. “It’s going to be a huge change in our lives,” Watts said, her voice filled with excitement. “My kids are going to be so happy when they see me picking them up. It’s going to be tears, but they’ll be happy tears.”
The Wheels for Women program continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of single mothers in Minneapolis, providing not just a vehicle but the opportunity for a better future. This program shows that sometimes, it’s the simple things—a car, a little help, and a lot of love—that can transform a life.
Credit: David Schuman, WCCO