Frequently Asked Questions

Vehicle Assistance

Who can apply for a vehicle?

Keys to Hope Foundation serves San Diego County residents who face a significant transportation barrier and financial hardship. A vehicle should help the applicant meet essential needs such as work, healthcare, recovery support, education, housing, reentry obligations, or family responsibilities. Visit our Eligibility page for the full overview.

When will applications open?

We anticipate opening our first application period on or about January 1, 2027. We plan to accept applications quarterly, with application periods in January, April, July, and October. Confirmed dates and instructions will be posted on our Application page.

Do I need a driver’s license to apply?

You may be considered while working toward obtaining or reinstating your license. However, you must personally hold a valid driver’s license before a vehicle can be transferred to you.

Does receiving a vehicle cost anything?

There is no purchase price, required donation, or volunteer service in exchange for a vehicle. After transfer, the recipient is responsible for costs such as insurance, fuel, registration renewals, maintenance, and future repairs.

If I qualify, am I guaranteed a vehicle?

No. Vehicles and program resources are limited. Keys to Hope considers each applicant’s circumstances and whether an available vehicle is suitable for their needs. Eligibility or an invitation to meet with us does not guarantee selection.

Are applications reviewed in the order they arrive?

No. Assistance is not first come, first served. Applications received during a quarterly period are reviewed using the program’s eligibility and selection criteria.

Can someone refer me?

Yes. Community organizations, service providers, and other supporters may refer someone to the program. A referral does not guarantee eligibility or give an applicant priority. Applicants are also welcome to apply directly when an application period is open.

Vehicle Donations

What kinds of vehicles can I offer?

You can tell us about a car, truck, SUV, or other vehicle you’d like to donate. It does not need to be new or cosmetically perfect. We review each offer individually, including its ownership documents, condition, safety, and likely repair needs.

Will you accept a vehicle that needs repairs?

Possibly. Tell us about any known problems when you submit the Vehicle Offer Form. We’ll assess whether we can responsibly prepare the vehicle for a recipient or use it in another way that supports our mission. Submitting an offer does not mean the vehicle has been accepted.

Should I sign over the title or bring you the vehicle now?

Please wait until we’ve reviewed your offer and arranged the next steps with you. Do not sign over the title or deliver the vehicle before speaking with our team.

Can I choose who receives my donated vehicle?

You’re welcome to tell us about someone who may need assistance, but Keys to Hope independently reviews and selects recipients under its program criteria. We cannot promise a donated vehicle to a particular person.

Is my vehicle donation tax deductible?

Keys to Hope intends to apply for federal 501(c)(3) recognition, but we have not yet submitted the application or received IRS recognition. We can acknowledge an accepted donation, but we cannot guarantee a tax deduction or determine its amount. If a deduction matters to your decision, please consult your tax adviser before donating.

Supporting Keys to Hope

What is the Founding 100?

The Founding 100 is a group of early supporters helping Keys to Hope build its vehicle assistance program. You can learn more and join through our Donate page. Supporters are listed on our Sponsors & Partners page only with their permission.

How else can I help?

You can offer a vehicle, make a financial contribution, connect us with a potential community partner, or share our work with others. Visit our Donate a Vehicle, Donate, and Sponsors & Partners pages to learn more.

How can I contact you?

Use our Contact page or call (760) 385-5510.