Michelle is overjoyed to receive a car from St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County, as it will help her care for her children and visit family.
Michelle, a single mom with no family nearby, worked hard to save enough money to buy a car. The car wasn’t just a way to get around—it helped her take care of her child and stay connected with loved ones.
But just three weeks later, disaster struck – the car’s transmission broke down. Michelle couldn’t afford the expensive repairs.
“I was devastated,” Michelle shared. “I bought that car for $2,500, and I got $600 back when it was sold for scrap less than a month later.”
Without the car, Michelle had to rely on buses or expensive Uber rides to get to work or buy groceries. Seeing family became nearly impossible, leaving her and her children isolated.
But everything changed on September 16th, when Michelle received a free car from St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County via SVdP’s Free Auto Donation Program.
“It still feels so unreal, I’m so happy,” Michelle said. “A whole car! I’m so grateful, this will change mine and my children’s lives. We’ll finally be able to see our family again. My kids missed their cousins. It’s been over a year since we’ve had a car.”
Michelle couldn’t stop smiling as she sat in her new car, generously donated through SVdP’s Auto Donation Program. This program takes cars that are still running, generously donated to SVdP, and matches them with families like Michelle’s, who desperately need reliable transportation. Donating a car can truly transform lives.
“It’s been so hard to get anywhere in the Bay,” Michelle said. “It feels like if you don’t have a car, you aren’t allowed to exist out here. I’m just so relieved, and so thankful. It’s been devastating to not have a car—this will really change everything for me and my kids.”
By donating your car to SVdP’s Auto Donation Program, you can make a real difference in the lives of families like Michelle’s. Your generous gift could change everything for someone in need.
