Two Plymouth Women Receive Life-Changing Gifts

The car market is becoming increasingly luxurious, leaving many people unable to afford even the most economical new and used vehicles. Two Plymouth women were feeling stuck in life, with no way to get from point A to B. Then, a local organization called with life-changing news – it had found a way to get them reliable cars.

On the same day last month, Plymouth residents Josephine Patry and Julie Arnold were awarded donated cars 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 26 years, it has helped car donors give over 5,500 vehicles to neighbors in need, putting them on the road to self-sufficiency.

Upon receiving the keys to a 2008 Ford Fusion, Patry wrote the donor of the car a note saying, “I can’t thank you enough for donating your car. It will help me get to and from work and all of my appointments. I will take good care of this car and drive responsibly.”

That same day, Arnold was awarded a black 2012 Hyundai Accent. She said, “Thank you so very much for donating your car to me and helping me get my freedom back. I’ll be able to go wherever I need.”

According to Good News Garage, many lower-income individuals and families are unable to afford reliable vehicles, restricting their ability to obtain steady employment, bring their kids to school or childcare, and live self-sufficiently here in New England. The organization also says the need for donated vehicles is at a critical level due to the rising costs of both used and new cars. 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, 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.