Car ministries we know of
God's Garage (Ogden)
Gives donated cars to single mothers. See Utah.
The Car Ministry (Falls Church)
Provides donated vehicles to people in need in Northern Virginia. See Virginia.
Cars Ministry, St. Matthew Lutheran (Beaverton)
A church car ministry connected with Lutheran Social Services. See Oregon.
Wheels4Hope
A faith-based nonprofit that repairs donated cars for working families. See North Carolina.
Faith-based charities that help with car costs
- The Salvation Army: emergency help that can include gas cards, bus passes or small repairs in some areas
- Catholic Charities: local offices run emergency assistance, and some accept car donations to fund services
- St. Vincent de Paul Society: local conferences sometimes help with car repairs, and some run car programs
- Lutheran Social Services and other denominational agencies
- Local congregations: many have benevolence funds for members of the community
How to ask a church for help
- Call the church office and ask whether they have a car ministry, benevolence fund or emergency help.
- Explain your need briefly and how a car or repair would help you work or care for your family.
- Have a repair estimate, proof of income and ID ready.
- Ask for referrals if they cannot help. Churches often know about other local programs.
Help is never conditional on joining a church or attending services at legitimate charities.
Where to start
- Apply with us. Fill out our free online application. We review your situation and point you to programs you may qualify for.
- Check your state guide. Each state page lists nonprofit car programs, loan programs and government help in that state.
- Call 2-1-1. United Way's free, confidential helpline connects you with local transportation help.
- Ask your TANF caseworker about "transportation supportive services". Many states pay for car repairs, insurance or registration when you need a car for work.
- Contact your Community Action Agency. Most U.S. counties have one, and many run car loan, repair or gas programs.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to belong to the church to get help?
Usually not. Many church car ministries and benevolence funds help anyone in the community, though some give priority to members or referrals.
Can I start a car ministry at my church?
Yes. Many begin with a volunteer mechanic, a few donated cars and a partnership with a local agency that refers families. Contact us if you want to partner.
Related help
Find help in your state
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Ohio
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Michigan
- Illinois
- All 50 states + DC
Reviewed November 2026. This page was researched using official government and program sources. Programs change often, so please confirm details with each program before applying. How we research.