For most people, the question of how to get to work or the market only becomes an issue when their car breaks down and they are forced to make alternative arrangements for a few days, but for others, transportation is a constant struggle. In this situation it can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but there is hope. It is possible to get a car donated to you by a philanthropist for free, if you know where to look. It may take a little time, but your persistence may just pay off.
Contact your local Goodwill. Goodwill locations around the country offer a program called Wheels for Work. The goal of this program is to get cars to people who need them in order to keep their job and keep working. This program only benefits people who have proven that they want to be self-sufficient.
Call your church or a church in your area. There may be philanthropists within the church who like to give to needy parishioners, especially when the priest or preacher asks of them to give. The first thing to do would be to talk with the priest or preacher at your church or, if you don’t have a church, inquire at churches throughout your area. Being a parishioner and having a long-standing relationship with the church is usually not a requirement, but it may help.
Check on the web or in the phone book for charities that give cars to people who need them. Unfortunately, many charities do not give cars directly to people, instead preferring to sell them at auction and give them money to a charity of their choosing. There are some, like 1-800-CHARITY CARS, that do give donated cars from philanthropists directly to those who need them. These charities will usually let anyone apply, but most have requirements that you must prove before you can receive a car.