A reliable public transportation system is necessary for people to travel freely at an affordable cost. Yet, not every county or city in the U.S. has this. Hence, most Americans still rely on cars for transportation. For low-income families, disabled individuals, and seniors, buying a new car is out of an option. In 2022, the average price for new cars will be $48,094.
Fortunately, some non-profit organizations and programs offer used cars for qualified individuals without any charge. This article will discuss the various programs that provide "free used car near me" and their eligibility requirements. Read on to learn more.
Who Is Eligible To Receive Free Used Cars
Nowadays, having a personal car is a necessity. Without a reliable vehicle, going to work, attending school, acquiring basic needs, or raising a family is challenging. If you belong to any of the categories listed below, you might be eligible to receive free used cars.
Single Mothers
Being a single mother is extremely demanding and difficult, especially without a vehicle. Single parents deal with various challenges, such as providing for their families while raising children. Money is also scarce since there is only one source of income.
People With Disabilities
Some disabled people do not have ride arrangements and those that do occasionally fall through. This is especially true in rural locations where it may be difficult to arrange transportation when needed. The crippling nature of disabilities and illnesses makes obtaining a car necessary for most disabled people.
Low-Income Families
With record-high inflation rates and rising costs of groceries, many low-income households in America are struggling to get by. Additionally, not having a vehicle could cost low-income families job opportunities that could help them make ends meet.
Elderly People
Most seniors depend on fixed pensions, so buying a new car is simply not an option. Furthermore, many seniors suffer from acute illnesses and must travel to doctor's appointments and medical facilities to get treatment. This means having no vehicle can be life-threatening and dangerous for the elderly.
Students
Some students reside in areas far from their universities and schools. As such, they need cars to get to their classes on time and avoid the hassle of commuting to and from campus.
Free Vehicle Government Programs
Several grantA sum of money given by a government or other organization for a particular purpose, usually without... programs can provide financial assistance if you cannot support yourself or your family. Unfortunately, the government does not hand out free cars to people. Instead, most federal government support for car purchases will come from grants. The grant amount provided is between $1,000 and $2,000, and it is given out in vouchers.
Eligibility Requirements For Applicants
Despite varying requirements, eligibility for car assistance programs is highly dependent on gross income, family situation, personal classification, and employment. To qualify, the applicantThe individual or organization submitting the grant proposal and responsible for implementing the pr... must be/have the following:
- U.S. Citizen
- Unemployed
- Valid driver's license
- A household's gross income should not exceed 125% of the poverty level in the area
Charity Organizations That Donate Cars To Low-Income Families and Disabled Individuals
Aside from car-assistance government programs, non-profit organizations provide free used cars to financially struggling individuals and families.
Cars4Heroes
A 501(c)(3) organization called Cars4Heroes donates free second-hand vehicles to veterans, first responders, and their families who can't afford to buy new cars for themselves. To apply, you must submit an application formA standardized document that applicants must complete and submit as part of the grant proposal, ofte... containing information detailing your service history, military branch, your need for the car, and other personal details.
Cars4Christmas
The same organization that runs Cars4Heroes also handles Cars4Christmas. This initiative offers free and minimal transportation services to individuals ruined by life-altering illness, death, tragedy, natural disasters, and permanent disability. Cars4Chrismtas donates over 20 used vehicles each year to qualified applicants.
800-Charity Cars
To give away free automobiles to those in need, 1-800-Charity partners with FreeCharityCars. While the latter provides cars at a discounted price for anyone who wishes to apply, 1-800-Charity offers donated cars and financial assistance to individuals who need a free vehicle.
OnlineCarDonation.org
The Online Car Donation organization provides free cars to the following applicants:
- Victims of domestic abuse
- Disabled individuals
- Homeless families
- Veterans and their families
To be eligible, you must submit your application containing your personal information and reasons for needing the vehicle.
Vehicles For Change
Vehicles For Change is a charity that collaborates with social service institutions to provide free used cars to eligible applicants. Their program is made available to individuals striving to be self-sufficient but require a car to go to work, interview, and apply for job opportunities. However, remember that this program has a lengthy and rigorous application process.
Curious about more free car opportunities, especially for college students? Unveil the secrets in our latest blog post. Drive smart, study hard, and save big!
If you are a military veteran needing dental care services, check out this article from Gov Relations on free dental work for veterans in 2023.
