Drive a Difference in Oahu: How Your Car Donation Can Transform Lives

Closeup tow truck driver hand fixing car with belt on platform. Roadside assistance concept

Have you ever thought that your unused or old vehicle could be a lifeline for those battling kidney disease in our beautiful island community? It’s possible through the Kidney Cars program by the Kidney Foundation of Hawaii, where donating your vehicle can make a substantial impact.

Kidney disease is a significant health issue in Oahu. This challenge affects many of our ohana, and the Kidney Foundation of Hawaii’s Kidney Cars program offers a beacon of hope.

Donating your car is not only a generous act of support for those living with kidney disease, but it’s also straightforward and beneficial for you as a donor. Let’s explore how you can donate a car on Oahu and see how your contribution can make a difference in our community.

Understanding the Kidney Cars Program

The Kidney Cars program is a charitable initiative that lets you donate your vehicle to support the vital services provided by the Kidney Foundation of Hawaii. The proceeds from your donation go directly to funding diabetes and kidney disease prevention programs, patient services, chronic illness management, nutrition counseling and more.

Why Donate?

Your vehicle donation provides crucial resources for education and support services, contributing directly to the health and wellbeing of island residents affected by kidney disease. Additionally, donating your vehicle can offer significant tax benefits, as it is an IRS-approved charitable contribution.

The Simple Steps to Donate Your Car on Oahu

The first step in the donation process is to complete the online car donation application. Your application will be promptly processed, typically within one to two days, after which you’ll be contacted by the office to discuss the specifics of your vehicle’s condition.

Once your donation receives approval, the only document you’ll need to provide before proceeding is the signed Certificate of Title. This critical step ensures that the donation is legally compliant and that the vehicle can be officially transferred.

Following the completion of the paperwork, the next step is to arrange the free towing of your vehicle. This service is designed to be as convenient as possible, with the tow typically being scheduled within three to five days from the approval of the donation. This hassle-free pickup service is part of the commitment to making your donation experience smooth and rewarding, reflecting the appreciation for your generous support of the Kidney Foundation’s mission.

Receive Your Tax Deduction Paperwork

After your car is generously donated and processed through the Kidney Cars program, it will be sold at a private auction. This sale process is an essential part of how your donation translates into support for the foundation’s work. Within 30 days of the sale of your vehicle, we will provide you with a receipt that you can use for your tax deduction. It’s important to note that the selling price of vehicles is not predetermined and can vary; therefore, we cannot guarantee any specific selling price for any vehicle.

Please be aware that the time frame for the sale of your vehicle can extend up to 60 days or more. Patience is appreciated, as this process ensures that the maximum possible value is obtained for your donation. Once your vehicle is sold, you will be notified of the final sale price and the amount eligible for tax deduction.

We ensure that every donor receives a sale notification. Even in cases where the selling price of the vehicle is less than $500, you are still entitled to claim the maximum tax deduction of $500. This provision is designed to make the process of donating your car as beneficial as possible for your tax considerations, acknowledging the generous spirit in which the donation was made.

The Impact of Your Donation

Your donation supports various services, including emergency financial aid, nutritional supplements, and transportation for medical appointments. Every car donation supports the foundation’s mission to combat kidney and urinary tract diseases and increase organ availability for transplantation.

FAQs about Car Donation in Oahu

Does my car have to be in running condition to donate?

We accept running and non-running vehicles through our Oahu Kidney Cars program.  Our Maui and Big Island programs accept vehicles on a case-by-case basis. The car must have all its parts (working or non-working) and be free of any active citations.

My car’s safety and registration have expired, can I still donate the vehicle?

We do accept vehicles with expired registration and/or safety on Oahu.

Final Thoughts

Donating your car in Oahu is more than just a charitable act; it’s a way of strengthening our community and supporting those in need. The Kidney Cars program offers an easy and impactful way to contribute to the well-being of fellow islanders, and it’s an opportunity to turn something you no longer need into a powerful tool for change.

If you have an extra vehicle, consider donating it to the Kidney Cars program. It’s a simple process with significant benefits, both for you and for those who are bravely fighting kidney disease in our community. Your contribution could be the help someone needs to navigate their health journey.

Mahalo for considering this unique way to make a difference in Oahu. Your generosity can drive a significant change in the lives of many.

Mahalo For Reading!

If you've found value in this post and wish to support our mission, consider making a contribution. Your donation transforms lives by supporting our programs for the community and services for kidney patients in Hawaii. Here are a few ways you can help:

Sign Up For Our Programs

Wherever you are in your health journey, we have a health class, workshop, or program that is right for you — see we offer in each category below. Contact us at programs@kidneyhi.org or (808) 593-1515 for more information or to register for a class.

All of our group programs are currently held online using Zoom video conferencing. Access to a computer and internet is needed to have the best experience.

Prevent Diabetes & Kidney Disease

Our classes provide information about treatment options, insurance, and how to partner with your doctor and healthcare team.

Prevent Chronic Illness

Transform your lifestyle and become part of a motivated, healthy community by joining one of these classes.

Manage Gout & Arthritis

Improving your daily lifestyle habits to help manage chronic diseases like gout and arthritis.

Healthy Keiki

A family-based obesity prevention program that elicits a positive, lifelong lifestyle transformation.

Health Planning

Plan while you are healthy to ensure that your wishes are carried out — we'll help guide you step-by-step!

Patient Services

We're here to help with your various needs: from connecting with support groups to obtaining medical identification.