Donated Car Gives Cambridge Man a Way Forward

The car market is becoming increasingly luxurious, leaving many people struggling to find a way to get from point A to B. For a Cambridge man who’s trying to get ahead in life, transportation challenges have pumped the brakes on his ability to make forward progress, until a generous donor gave him the gift of a lifetime.

John Benjamin was awarded a gray 2002 Toyota Camry from the car-donation nonprofit Good News Garage. Not affiliated with the Cambridge repair shop of the same name, 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.

Benjamin is attending online classes to earn a degree, and ultimately, a better living. He said the donated Camry will allow him to pay his way through school by working for Lyft and Uber. It also allows him to visit family, tend to essential life activities, and generally be more productive.

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, the org says.

“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.