Erie Ford Dealership has announced that the 2026 Ford Friendship Express Program application is now open. Local nonprofit organizations in need of reliable transportation can apply for this opportunity to receive a new 2026 Ford vehicle.
Applications and more information can be found online here. Applications are due by July 31. The Ford Friendship Express is a pay it forward initiative where Ford Dealers in Erie work to donate a new car to local nonprofits.
Beginning in 1996 in Buffalo the Ford Friendship Express program expanded to Erie in 2013 providing organizations a way to share their stories while proposing why a new set of wheels would benefit not only the nonprofit but the community they serve as well.
In 2025 the Community Blood Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania and Western New York joined the Ford Friendship Express family.
The Ford Friendship Express recipients in the past also include Sarah A. Reed Children’s Center, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, Women’s Care Center of Erie County, The Sight Center of Northwest PA, The Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity, Erie City Mission and many more.
Any nonprofit organizations in Erie, Crawford, and Warren are eligible to apply for this opportunity. Applicants will share their stories and demonstrate why a new car would elevate the work they do in the community.
Completed applications must be submitted by July 31 and can be sent to the address below:
ATTN: Laurie Hebeler
c/o Mower
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1300
Buffalo, NY 14202