St. Mathews Lutheran Church

Refurbished car program

They donate free cars to people in need.  Call to get an application.  There is a one year waiting list. 

503-644-9148

Union Gospel Mission

Sell refurbished vehicles to general public:  The person I talked to said they may consider case by case basis, sliding scale for very low income depending on need. 

Tigard Store 503-639-6488

Portland Rescue Mission

8301 NE Halsey St, Portland

Open 9:30-6pm

They have refurbished car and are able to guarantee work on the cars.  The lowest priced cars that they offer are in the $600-$650 range.  They are currently supporting men in treatment as well as a shelter for battered women and children.  All cars sold off their lot are in running condition, and have been thoroughly checked over and refurbished. 503-906-7673/503-320-9564

St Vincent de Paul

Sell their cars through Speeds Super tow every Tuesday at 14325 NE Sandy Blvd.  The lot is open at 8am and the auction begins at 10am.  Their cars are divided into 3 categories: non-running, running with problems, and running well.  The lowest priced cars are usually selling around $200.  The money for the car is due by the end of business on that Tuesday.  The cars for auction can be viewed at: .  503-595-2281

Metropolitan Family Services

Ways to Work

Qualifications for this loan program include: credit score below 640.  You cannot be in a bankruptcy while applying for this loan.  Terms of the loan are currently as follows: 8% fixed rate, for 24 months.  This equates to $135/month on a $3,000 car, up to $270/month on a $6,000 car.  If the car is over $4,500, the loan may be extended to 30 months to lower the payment.  Cars purchased through this program MUST go through a certified car dealer, and they provide a list of disallowed dealers, as well as recommended dealers.  

Must be working 20 hrs/week for 3 months

Must buy car between $3,000-$6,000

503-232-0007 x 207

Salvation Army Car Program

Don’t give away cars, but they do accept vehicle donations and they will sell them.  They use the proceeds to fund their program.

Volunteers of America

Don’t give away cars, but they do accept vehicle donations and they will sell them.  They use the proceeds to fund their program.

503-239-7900

Written by: Kalene Ardt