By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – An unwanted vehicle can now help Catholic Charities meet needs that fall outside traditional sources of funding through a new partnership with Paul Moak Automotive in Jackson.
The Catholic Charities Auto Donation Program accepts qualifying cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, recreational vehicles and other vehicles. Proceeds from their sale will support Catholic Charities programs serving individuals and families across Mississippi.
The program gives donors a simple way to turn a vehicle they no longer need into flexible support for services across the state.
The partnership offers a local alternative to national vehicle donation services, which often send donated vehicles directly to wholesale auctions. Through the new program, Paul Moak Automotive will evaluate each donated vehicle and, when appropriate, recondition, photograph and offer it for sale on the retail market.
“Wholesale auctions are built to move vehicles quickly, not necessarily to maximize their value,” said John Scarbrough of Paul Moak Automotive. “Taking the time to prepare and sell vehicles locally at retail – when appropriate – typically generates stronger returns for the charity.”
Scarbrough said Catholic Charities’ previous experience with vehicle donations and Paul Moak Automotive’s knowledge of the retail market made the partnership a natural fit.
“We are excited to work alongside Catholic Charities in this way,” he said.
The additional proceeds will give Catholic Charities greater flexibility to respond to everyday needs that may not qualify for support through grants or other restricted funding sources, according to Christina Bach, executive director of Catholic Charities.
“There are always needs that arise that are not covered by grant funding,” Bach said. “A child may need a school uniform or even something as simple as a belt, for example. Having these additional funds allows us to better support our agency, our programs and the people we serve.”

Bach encouraged people not to assume that an older or unused vehicle has nothing to offer. Vehicles may qualify for the program even if their owners believe they have little value.
“Even if you think your car has no value, it can make a big difference in the life of someone working toward a better future,” Bach said. “Through this program, Paul Moak Automotive may be able to secure a better price for the vehicle than traditional auction-based donation programs. That benefits the donor while creating a local investment in the work of Catholic Charities.”
For Paul Moak Automotive, the partnership also provides an opportunity to support an organization responding to a wide range of needs throughout the community.
“From hunger relief and adoption and pregnancy services to counseling and shelter, Catholic Charities has a broad service footprint that addresses many levels of need in our community,” Scarbrough said. “It is a real honor for our organization to partner in that work.”
Vehicle donations may also qualify as charitable contributions for tax purposes. Donors should consult a tax professional regarding their individual circumstances.

To learn more about donating a vehicle or to begin the donation process, visit www.catholiccharitiesjackson.org/keys-of-hope or call (601) 360-2330.