It also could be the thing that lets them find a job and avoid financial ruin. Public transit sometimes works, but it almost always increases how long it takes

It also could be the thing that lets them find a job and avoid financial ruin. Public transit sometimes works, but it almost always increases how long it takes to get somewhere. If I was struggling to make ends meet by working two jobs and had kids, public transit would likely add so much time to my commute, that I'd have to choose between a second job, and having any time with the kids. Frankly, I think car ownership is one of the most freeing things we have in modern life. It opens up doors that would be closed if you relied on other forms of transportation. Being able to go where you want, when you want, is very valuable.