How we started
AutoHeritage Donate was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to support our fellow Virginians who may qualify for essential benefits but are often unaware of them. It all started in a small community meeting in a church basement in Richmond, where local residents shared stories about struggling to access resources like SNAP and Virginia Medicaid.
After realizing that many families were eligible for assistance but not enrolled, a group of passionate volunteers came together to create a vehicle donation program. This innovative funding model would allow community members to donate cars they no longer needed, which would in turn finance a dedicated benefits-research service. Our mission was clear: connect our neighbors with vital programs and help strengthen our communities across the Commonwealth.
Our mission
At AutoHeritage Donate, our mission is to bridge the gap between eligible residents and necessary benefits programs like SNAP, Virginia Medicaid, TANF, WIC, and Fuel Assistance. We strive to create a more informed and empowered community, ensuring that no Virginian goes without the support they deserve. By facilitating vehicle donations, we not only make it easy for generous individuals to give back but also provide a vital resource for our fellow neighbors in need.
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We commit to being open and honest about our funding, services, and impact within the community.
Zero-Fee Pickup
We offer car pickup without any fees, ensuring that every donation maximally supports our mission.
Local-First Research
Our research focuses on local needs, actively addressing the unique benefits enrollment gaps in our communities.
Dignity in Every Interaction
We treat every participant with respect, ensuring that every interaction honors their dignity and experience.
Our principles
- Empower the community through informed choices and resources.
- Foster collaboration with local organizations to enhance outreach.
- Continually educate ourselves on local needs and benefits.
- Prioritize sustainability in our vehicle donation process.
- Listen actively to the voices of our community members.
Why this city
Virginia is home to diverse neighborhoods, including those in Richmond, Norfolk, and Charlottesville, each experiencing distinct challenges. Many families in these areas face barriers to enrolling in programs like TANF and WIC, often due to a lack of information or resources. Additionally, research shows that communities with higher poverty rates, such as parts of Petersburg and Danville, have significant enrollment gaps in essential benefits. By focusing our efforts on these locations, we aim to uplift the most vulnerable populations and ensure they receive the support they need.
Join us in making a real difference for our neighbors in Virginia. By donating your vehicle, you not only support essential research services but also help connect families with the benefits they deserve. If you need help locating programs, check out our benefits finder to start your journey toward access and empowerment.