Connecting West Virginians to Essential Benefits Through Car Donations

Our mission, our story, and why this work matters locally.

How we started

In the heart of West Virginia, Appalachian Autos emerged from a simple yet profound realization: many neighbors were eligible for vital assistance programs but simply weren’t enrolled. We saw families in communities like Coalwood and Clarksburg struggling to access benefits such as SNAP and WV Medicaid. Our founders, deeply rooted in the Appalachian way of life, knew they had to do something about it.

Recognizing that thousands of vehicles sat idle in driveways across the state, they turned this untapped resource into a powerful funding model. With each car donation, we transformed lives—not just by providing a free benefits-research service but by ensuring that every West Virginian could get the help they deserve. Appalachian Autos was born, driven by the spirit of community and the hope of brighter futures.

Our mission

At Appalachian Autos, our mission is to empower West Virginians by connecting them with essential benefits programs such as SNAP, WV Medicaid, WV Works, WIC, and LIEAP. We exist to ensure that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can access the support they need to lead fulfilling lives. Through our vehicle donation program, we create a sustainable funding mechanism that fuels our free benefits-research service, bridging the gap between local families and the assistance they deserve. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger West Virginia.

What we stand for

Radical Transparency

We believe in keeping our processes open and clear, so donors and beneficiaries know how their contributions are making a difference.

Zero-Fee Pickup

When you donate your vehicle, we ensure it’s picked up at no cost to you, maximizing every dollar toward assisting our neighbors.

Local-First Research

Our research is rooted in West Virginia communities, focusing on local needs and the unique challenges faced by our residents.

Dignity in Every Interaction

We treat everyone with respect and integrity, recognizing that seeking help is a brave step for many in our state.

Our principles

Why this city

West Virginia is a unique tapestry of rich culture, resilient communities, and overlooked potential. Neighborhoods like Logan and Huntington often witness gaps in benefits enrollment, especially among low-income families and seniors. Many locals are unaware of programs like WV Works or WIC that can significantly change their circumstances. With a demographic that includes a large portion of working-class residents, our mission is tailored to ensure that everyone knows what’s available to them and can easily access the help they need.

Your vehicle donation could open the door for your neighbors to essential benefits they didn’t know they could access. Join us in making a difference—donate your car today or use our benefits finder to learn about available programs in West Virginia. Together, we can uplift our communities and ensure everyone gets the support they deserve.

Related pages

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Local partners we fund →
neighborhoods
Where we serve →
how it works
Our donation flow →

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