Applications now open: Western New York nonprofits invited to apply to 2025 Ford Friendship Express program

Local nonprofits have until July 31 to apply for opportunity to receive new Ford Transit Van

Western New York Ford Dealers Press Release

Western New York Ford Dealers announced applications are now available for local nonprofits for the 2025 Ford Friendship Express program. Nonprofits in need of reliable transportation are encouraged to apply by July 31 for an opportunity to secure a new 2025 Ford Transit Van.

Ford Friendship Express is a pay it forward program where the local WNY Ford Dealers donate “a brand-new set of wheels” to local nonprofits. Launched in Buffalo in 1996, the Ford Friendship Express program provides an opportunity for organizations in need of transportation to share their stories in hopes of receiving a new Ford van.

“For nearly 30 years, the Western New York Ford Dealers have proudly donated more than 100 new vehicles to area nonprofits in need of reliable transportation,” said Frank Zambito, chairman of the Western New York Ford Dealers Association. “We are proud to carry on this annual tradition of supporting the community organizations that provide vital and meaningful services to our neighbors throughout Western New York.”

SPCA Serving Erie County and Trocaire College, Boys & Girls Club of East Aurora and Niagara Gospel Mission were the latest organizations to join the Ford Friendship Express family as 2024 recipients. Additional past recipients include SABAH (Spirited Athletes Bold at Heart), NativityMiguel Middle School of Buffalo and Buffalo Maritime Center.

All nonprofit organizations operating within Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus or Allegany counties, or the Pennsylvania counties of McKean or Potter, are eligible to apply. Application details include the following:

√ Applications and guidelines are available at www.buyfordnow.com under the “local events” tab.

√ The deadline to apply is July 31, 2025.

√ To be eligible for consideration in the WNY-area program, organizations must be located in Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany, McKean or Potter counties.

√ Charities are encouraged to share stories that demonstrate their need for improved transportation.

√ All applications must be received by July 31 to be eligible for consideration for the 2025 program. Send completed applications to:

ATTN: Laurie Hebeler

c/o Mower

50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1300

Buffalo, NY 14202

The Western New York Ford Dealers are part of the Western New York Ford Stores, an advertising cooperative comprised of 39 dealer locations that provides support for Ford vehicle sales and service in the 13 counties of Western New York and Rochester, and three counties in Northern Pennsylvania. For more information, visit www.buyfordnow.com.