published: Friday, November 20, 2009

Habitat's Cars for Homes program seeks donations

Special to the News-Sun

SEBRING -- Steering more lower-income families toward affordable home ownership opportunities, Highlands County Habitat for Humanity will continue its "Cars for Homes" vehicle donation program.

Cars for Homes takes donated cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles, RVs, airplanes and farm and construction equipment (running or not) and sells them to raise funds that help build simple, decent homes.

Funds generated from vehicle sales benefit the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate and community where the donation is made.

Habitat began its Cars for Homes program in the fall of 2003 in the Seattle area. Since that time, car donations have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars that ultimately help build homes in partnership with low-income families.

Highlands County Habitat for Humanity is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. If you itemize deductions on your income tax return, it may be possible to claim a deduction for donating your car. In general, donors who itemize their taxes may deduct the fair market value of any donated vehicle up to $499. If your vehicle sells for more than $500, you may deduct the full selling price. You will receive the appropriate receipt from Habitat for Humanity for your car donation.

For more information, see IRS Publication 4303, "A Donor's Guide to Vehicle Donations," at the IRS Web site and consult with your own tax advisor.

Highlands County Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit Christian organization dedicated to eliminating substandard housing, homelessness and to making adequate, affordable shelter a matter of conscience and action.

Habitat is founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live in dignity and safety.

For additional information, contact Sarah Pallone at 402-2913 or at spallone@habitathighlands.org.