NORWAY – The Oxford County Domestic Violence Task Force met Tuesday to discuss transportation issues facing victims of domestic violence.

Bill Mitchell, manager of the Good Wheels Program of Goodwill Industries, said some victims live with an abusive partner for the sole purpose of having transportation. He said the program can provide an escape from those relationships by offering a low-interest loan to purchase a donated or used vehicle.

Mitchell said the program is meant for people receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and can provide up to $5,000 at 5 percent interest over three years. He said that while the program aims to provide vehicles to those who are employed up to 30 hours a week and can afford the loan and maintenance costs, exceptions can be made for people whose unemployment or underemployment is due to a lack of transportation.

“We work with victims of domestic violence all the time,” Mitchell said.

He said the program has placed 1,200 vehicles out of 2,800 referrals over the past 10 years. He said 75 percent of the people in the program get off welfare, and $4.56 million in revolving loans have been handed out.

Jennifer Warriner of Community Concepts said a transportation program is available to take MaineCare recipients to medical appointments. She said someone on MaineCare with their own vehicle can be reimbursed for mileage in driving to appointments.

Warriner said the program serves Oxford, Franklin and Androscoggin counties. Drivers are given a background check and training on safety and confidentiality issues.

Kelley Gliden of the Abused Women’s Advocacy Project said vouchers are available from the organization for Western Maine Transportation Services.

Dennis Gray of the United Way of Oxford County said the Oxford Hills Area Clergy Association also has some funds that can be used for transportation or vehicle repairs for those in need.

Chief Robert Federico of the Norway Police Department said police transports are available for witnesses and domestic violence victims who are subpoenaed to court or appear on protection from abuse issues.