-
Overview
While there are a number of government programs designed to help parents, such as food stamps or SCHIP, there's not a specific program that donates cars to families. There are, however, a number of charity and state- or county-based programs that donate cars.
Types
There are two main types of programs that donate cars to single parents: private and public. Though in some cases the groups are linked, private groups that donate cars are charities and public groups are those that are run by state, city or county governments.
Identification
Some well-known programs are Project Self-Sufficiency, St. Vincent De Paul Society, Give Cars to Kids, the Good News Garage and Cars 4 Causes. Your local church can be an excellent resource as well as can be your county social services board (get their address, phone number and Web site by doing a Google search using "social services, your county and your state"). You can also post information seeking help on Aidpage.com.
Features
The program will expect those receiving cars to meet eligibility requirements such as custody of children, income near the poverty line (you will have to bring documentation showing all your sources of income as well as an outline of your monthly expenses), having a job/be on a job search/be enrolled in school, and possibly community service or volunteer hours.
Considerations
Check with the Better Business Bureau and Charity Navigator to make sure that any private charities you work with are reputable.
Time Frame
It can take weeks or months to get your own car. In the meantime, see if you work out a way to use a car from a friend or relative.
