New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
Gas prices are only the most recent struggle. Record-high car prices have persisted for months, leaving many people unable to afford safe and reliable vehicles. Fortunately for a New Bedford man, a donated car is bringing relief from his transportation struggles and enabling him to move forward in his life.
On April 28, Justice Shabazz was awarded a 2010 Toyota Tacoma from the car-donation nonprofit Good News Garage. The organization was founded in Vermont in 1996 as one of the nation’s first charitable car donation programs. Over the last 25 years, it has helped car donors give over 5,500 vehicles to neighbors in need, putting them on the road to self-sufficiency.
“I want to tell you how grateful I am for this gift,” Shabazz told the donor of his new car. “I will use it to help me keep employment.”
Good News Garage says a national car shortage is driving up the prices for new and used cars to record highs. Many low-income individuals and families are unable to afford reliable vehicles, which brings their lives to a screeching halt. The organization also says the need for donated vehicles is at a critical level. Donations are down and being far outpaced by the demand and need for reliable used cars.
“While we can’t solve the car shortage, we can certainly help some of those who are being hit the hardest,” said Cash Cranson, director of operations at Good News Garage. “However, our ability to help is limited by the number of car donations we receive. During this difficult time, choosing to donate your car is an act of kindness and compassion that makes a huge, immediate impact.”
Good News Garage awards cars to Massachusetts residents through a partnership with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). Car recipients must be employed or have a written plan for employment and meet other qualifying criteria. This program is administered out of Good News Garage’s Manchester, New Hampshire office.
For more information or to donate, visit www.GoodNewsGarage.org.
Good News Garage is a member of Ascentria Care Alliance, one of the largest human services organizations in New England. With locations throughout the region, Ascentria is creating measurable, positive impact in communities by empowering people to reach beyond life’s challenges and thrive. For more information, visit ascentria.org.
