Philanthropist Funds Incentives for Car Donations

The Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC) aims to help people who need reliable transportation through its Wheelz2Work program. To broaden the capacity of Wheelz2Work, a local philanthropist recently announced an incentive initiative valid through the month of September.

Created in 2015, Wheelz2Work helps the nonprofit's Economic Self-Sufficiency (ES) clients who have transportation as a barrier to meeting their financial goals. Members of the public can donate vehicles to support the program and can now receive a reward in return.

The Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund has created an incentive program that offers a $1,000 cash reward to anyone who donates a car deemed acceptable by BCOC and a certified mechanic. This offer is only valid through the month of September and only for the first 10 vehicles donated. 

“From personal experiences when I was a young person, and we were being evicted from our home, the direst need was transportation,” Gene Epstein shared with the Bucks County Beacon. “Today, we see so many people, particularly in Bucks County, who have no access to public transportation, and without that, they cannot get to work or local colleges.”

Individuals who would like to receive a vehicle from Wheelz2Work are selected for a donation when they meet a list of specific criteria, including financial readiness to assume the responsibility of owning a vehicle. Approximately 120 cars have been donated in the decade since Wheelz2Work was created.  

Donated automobiles must be in good operating condition or in need of only minor repairs. BCOC has each car checked by a mechanic for road dependability and safety before presenting it to its new owner. Since the vehicles are given to families in need, donors are also entitled to claim the highest possible tax deduction based on the vehicles' fair market value. 

To learn more about donating your vehicle to Wheelz2Work, visit the BCOC's website and complete the form or contact Danielle Bush by email or telephone at 215-345-8175, ext. 209.