The Wayne County Reentry Council is holding a new campaign to help alleviate a struggle that justice-involved individuals may face: accessing transportation.

Through their “Tickets to Transform Lives” campaign, the Reentry Council hopes to bring awareness to the challenge of finding transportation upon reentry to society after incarceration.

The organization is requesting donations to purchase bus tickets for these individuals through the Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority (GWTA).

Individuals may make donations of any amount. Rides in the city of Goldsboro are $1 for regular fare, $0.50 for reduced fare (for senior citizens and persons with a disability), and $10 for an 11-ride fare card.

Donations can be mailed to or dropped off at the GWTA (103 North Carolina Street, Goldsboro, NC 27533).

Checks can also be made payable to the Foundation of Wayne Community College with “Wayne County Reentry” written in the memo line. These can be sent to 3000 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534.

The campaign will accept monetary donations until Dec. 19.

The Wayne County Reentry Council assists incarcerated individuals in the community with reentry into society by identifying and assisting with needed resources to make this transition as successful as possible.

Wayne Community College serves as the intermediary agency for the Wayne County Reentry Council.

“As we have worked with individuals transitioning from incarceration, we realize that transportation is a huge barrier,” said WCC Vice President of Workforce Continuing Education Services and Community Engagement Renita Dawson. “For many, trying to get a job and navigate other needed services is hindered because of transportation and finances. We hope this drive will ease some of the barriers our returning citizens face.”

For more information, contact Dawson ([email protected] or 919-739-6980) or Reentry Coordinator Brandi Matthews ([email protected] or 919-739-6900).