In Mobile, Alabama, our community faces an ongoing challenge with homelessness, but together, we can make a significant difference. Cruise Forward is committed to supporting local homeless shelters and transitional housing programs that provide vital services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Your generous donations enable these shelters to offer emergency overnight beds, transitional housing, rapid-rehousing vouchers, and much more.
Car donations play a pivotal role in funding these life-changing programs. Each donation helps fill the gap in local resources, allowing shelters to provide a safe haven and support for those in crisis. With every vehicle sold, funds are generated to directly support the operation and expansion of services offered by these dedicated organizations, ensuring that more people receive the help they need to regain stability.
Programs your donation funds
- Overnight emergency shelter beds
- Transitional housing (30-90 day stays)
- Rapid-rehousing vouchers
- Street-outreach teams
- Day-center services (showers, laundry, mail, phone)
- Family homeless shelters with childcare
↗Real impact, real numbers
Your donation can have a profound impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness. For example, selling a vehicle for $1,500 can fund approximately 40 to 60 overnight shelter nights at a local partner shelter, where the cost per bed-night ranges from $25 to $50. Alternatively, this amount could provide a one-month transitional housing rent subsidy for a family, or supply essential materials for a street outreach team for six months. By donating, you’re not just giving a vehicle; you’re providing a lifeline to those who need it most.
How we vet recipient partners
At Cruise Forward, we prioritize accountability and effectiveness in the organizations we support. Our partner shelters must meet HUD Continuum-of-Care standards, ensuring they are committed to reducing homelessness with low shelter-to-housed transition rates below 20%. Additionally, we require evidence of financial transparency by verifying Form 990s where at least 75% of their expenses are directed toward programs serving the homeless population. This meticulous vetting process helps us ensure that your contributions make the most significant impact possible.
How proceeds flow
After towing and processing costs, approximately 70-80% of the gross proceeds from vehicle sales are directed to our partner shelters. This amount is then proportionally allocated according to their program expenses, ensuring that the majority of your donation goes directly to programs that serve those experiencing homelessness. Your generosity translates into tangible support for those in need, helping us create a more equitable community.
Mobile recipient landscape
Mobile, Alabama, faces regional challenges with homelessness, compounded by limited state-level funding for essential programs. By supporting local homeless shelters and transitional programs, we can address the specific needs of our community. This includes providing safe overnight accommodations, access to family shelters with childcare, and essential day-center services. Your vehicle donation directly supports these local efforts, helping our community members regain their footing.