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The national "Cars for Homes"
program has created a win-win situation, with Habitat for Humanity able
to accept donations of cars, trucks, boats,
motorcycles, RVs and other vehicles. They then sell
the vehicles through automobile auctions, recyclers or salvage yards to
raise money that helps in the construction of homes, said Brian
Campfield,
Volunteer resource Coordinator
of Yakima Valley Partners
Habitat for Humanity.
Funds generated from the sale of the vehicles benefits the local Habitat
where the donation is made. The Cars for Homes program began in fall
2003 in the Seattle area, and since that time the sales have raised hundreds
of thousands of dollars.
"We have always had individuals donate cars, boats and RVs," Campfield said.
"However, our affiliate would have to handle the pickup, do the title
transfer, and attempt to resell the donated items locally. This program
makes it much easier on both the donor and HFHSTW as the recipient." Since
Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit organization, it may be
possible for donors to claim deductions on their income tax returns, if they
itemize. In general, donors can deduct the fair market value of any car up
to $499. If it sells for more than $500, the full price can be deducted.
The kicker is, "The tax deduction is often more than what they could sell
the vehicle for," Campfield said, "and they know that their donation will go
towards eliminating substandard housing in the Yakima Valley.”
Though the program gratefully accepts almost all vehicles, even snowmobiles
and trailers, boats and planes may require a call to see if they meet
minimum criteria, Nixon said. The vehicle doesn't even have to be running,
but it must be "whole" and have four inflated tires so that it can be moved
by the towing operators.
All vehicle donations are processed as quickly as possible, Campfield said.
Typically, the vehicle will be picked up within two or three days after the
title is received in the processing center, and you can speed up the process
by downloading documents online.
Most states require that you
have a clear title to the vehicle, and some that you have a notarized
signature. Louisiana and California also require an additional form. But
Habitat will provide the necessary form and will even help you find a lost
title, Campfield said.
Car donations are processed by Advanced Remarketing Services Inc., Habitat
for Humanity International's authorized national agent, and 100 percent of
the proceeds are returned to Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for Humanity.
An individual's donation could make a significant difference to a home
building effort.
For example, "The proceeds from the donation of one car could pay for the
cost of a bathtub in a family partner's home, a roof over their head, or a
beautifully landscaped front yard," Campfield said. "The donation of a large
RV could sponsor all or part of a family partner home.
"It's easy to do, and another way to support our mission," Campfield said,
"and our affiliate has a waiting list of families who need safe, decent,
affordable housing."
Donations can be made by calling 1 (877) 277-4344
or visiting
www.carsforhomes.org.
Clary added, "Be sure to designate Yakima Valley Partners Habitat for
Humanity as the affiliate of your choice."
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