How we started
Coal Valley Charity Cars was born from a deep understanding of the struggles faced by our neighbors in Wilkes-Barre. It all started when a local community member noticed that many families were missing out on crucial benefits programs like SNAP and LIHEAP, simply because they didn't know they were eligible. This insight sparked the idea to create a vehicle-donation program that would serve as a funding mechanism for a local benefits-research service.
After gathering a team of passionate volunteers and community advocates, we established Coal Valley Charity Cars. Our goal was clear: to connect our neighbors with the essential resources they need. Through generous vehicle donations, we raise funds to operate our research service, helping locals navigate the often-confusing benefits landscape in Pennsylvania. We're proud to serve our community from the heart of Wilkes-Barre.
Our mission
At Coal Valley Charity Cars, our mission is to connect Wilkes-Barre residents with vital programs such as Pennsylvania Medical Assistance, TANF, WIC, SNAP, and LIHEAP. We believe that every person deserves access to the resources that can improve their quality of life. Through our vehicle donation program, we not only provide a simple way for individuals to give back, but we also fuel the research that empowers our community to access these benefits. Together, we are building a stronger, more informed Wilkes-Barre.
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We believe in being open and honest about our processes and funding, ensuring our community is well-informed every step of the way.
Zero-Fee Pickup
Vehicle donations are completely free for our donors. No hidden fees; we handle everything to make the process easy and beneficial.
Local-First Research
Our research staff is deeply embedded in Wilkes-Barre, focusing on understanding local needs and barriers to benefits enrollment.
Dignity in Every Interaction
We treat every individual with respect and understanding, ensuring they feel valued and supported throughout their journey.
Our principles
- Empower local residents with knowledge and resources.
- Be proactive in identifying community needs and gaps.
- Foster collaboration with local organizations and stakeholders.
- Act with integrity and compassion in all our dealings.
- Celebrate the stories of success within our community.
Why this city
Wilkes-Barre, with its rich history and diverse neighborhoods like South Wilkes-Barre and the Hilldale area, faces unique challenges. Many residents belong to low-income families or are dealing with unemployment, leading to under-enrollment in essential benefits programs. Studies indicate significant gaps in enrollment for SNAP and Medical Assistance, leaving many unaware of the help available to them. Our focus on this city allows us to tailor our services to meet the specific needs of its residents, working towards a fairer distribution of resources in our beloved community.
If you have a vehicle you no longer need, consider donating it to Coal Valley Charity Cars. Your generosity will help fund our vital benefits-research service, connecting neighbors with much-needed resources. Alternatively, if you're looking for assistance, don’t hesitate to explore our benefits finder to see what programs you may qualify for. Together, we can make a difference in Wilkes-Barre!