Newport woman awarded vehicle from car-donation nonprofit

NEWPORT – A Newport mother recently received a donated car that is helping bring relief from her family’s transportation struggles.

Jessica Corr was awarded a 2004 Nissan Altima 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. 

Good News Garage says a national car shortage is driving up the prices for new and used cars.

Many low-income individuals and families are unable to afford reliable vehicles, restricting their ability to obtain steady employment, bring their kids important places, and live self-sufficiently.

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 Vermont residents through a partnership with the state’s Reach Up agency.

Car recipients must be Reach Up participants to qualify for cars.

Those interested can find out more about Reach Up at https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/reachup.  

For more information or to donate, visit www.GoodNewsGarage.org.