Reliable transportation is key in maintaining a job. Not having a car is a barrier some people face in finding and keeping a job. Since 1999, Goodwill has been helping to bridge the barrier between home and work through the Wheels for Work Program. To promote self-sufficiency, Goodwill provides donated cars to low-income working parents who have difficulty utilizing public transportation and cannot afford to buy a car.

Those who need vehicles complete applications and take classes in financial management and car care. Also, potential recipients must provide documentation that they don’t already own a car and have safe driving records. Wheels for Work has been giving donated cars to those needing transportation to work for more than 10 years.

In the 2009-2010 year, 30 families received vehicles. Goodwill has also started to provide other means of transportation such as bicycles and bus passes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I donate a vehicle to Goodwill?

Goodwill staff can pick up the vehicle using its dealer license plate or schedule to have the vehicle towed by a towing service. You will be asked questions about the age and condition of your vehicle to determine if it can be accepted by Goodwill. The owner or co-owners must be present to sign over the title at time of donation.

What happens when I donate my vehicle to Goodwill?

As a licensed used car dealer, Goodwill takes ownership of the vehicle immediately upon title transfer. As the donor, you retain your license plate and should cancel insurance coverage. If the vehicle is reported to be in good working condition, it is given a thorough safety inspection. Minor repairs are performed, and the vehicle is given to a Wheels for Work participant who needs personal transportation for maintaining employment in the community.

Is my donation of a vehicle to Goodwill a tax deduction?

The value of the donation may be tax deductible. Goodwill cannot provide tax advice regarding the value of a specific donation. Goodwill will provide you with a thank you letter that lists the value received from your vehicle -depending on how the vehicle was used by the program. Please refer to IRS guidelines or your tax advisor for specific guidance.

How long does the process of donating a vehicle to Goodwill usually take?

When you drive your car to a Goodwill location the title transfer takes only a few minutes. If your vehicle needs to be picked up by Goodwill, plan on at least 5 to 10 workdays from the title transfer until the removal of the vehicle.

Can I donate a car that is currently not running?

Your donation is a benefit to Goodwill only if the proceeds from sale at auction are greater than the cost of the Title Transfer and towing. Goodwill staff will discuss the age and condition of your vehicle before accepting it as a donation.

What is the money used for from my donation of a vehicle to Goodwill if it must go to auction to be sold?

The proceeds of the sale of a donated car are also used to support Wheels for Work. The service is designed to assist individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment achieve independence and continued employability by providing them with personal transportation.

How can I apply to receive a vehicle from the Wheels for Work Program?

Click here for a detailed list of requirements and to download an application form.

What counties in Pennsylvania are served by the Wheels for Work Program?

Adams, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Lycoming, Mifflin, Montgomery, Montour, Northampton, Northumblerland, Perry, Schuylkill, Snyder, Union, York

For more information, contact:

Brian Campbell
800.432.4483 x2076