Donated Car Gives Chelmsford Man a Way Forward

Record-high car prices have persisted for over a year, leaving many people unable to afford safe and reliable vehicles. Fortunately for a Chelmsford man, a donated car is bringing relief from his transportation struggles and enabling him to move forward in life.

Winston Jerome Fernandes was awarded a 2014 Chrysler 200 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.

Fernandes, a veteran, says that the car is “a true lifesaver.” He has not had a car in 10 years and is taking a driving refresher course to prepare himself for being back behind the wheel.

Good News Garage says a national car shortage is driving up the prices for new and used cars to record highs. 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 Massachusetts residents through a partnership with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). Car recipients must be employed or have a written plan for employment and meet other qualifying criteria. This program is administered out of Good News Garage’s Manchester, New Hampshire office.

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

Good News Garage is a member of Ascentria Care Alliance, one of the largest human services organizations in New England. With locations throughout the region, Ascentria is creating measurable, positive impact in communities by empowering people to reach beyond life’s challenges and thrive. For more information, visit ascentria.org.