Tis' the season or car donations...

Vehicles that may not mean a lot to you can make a difference in the lives of families in need by donating them to Habitat for Humanity International's "Cars for Homes" vehicle donation program.

Car, truck, boat, motorcycle, RV, automobile and other vehicle donations made through Habitat's "Cars for Homes" program are sold and the funds raised help build simple, decent homes in partnership with low-income families within the donor's local community.

Vehicle, title and contact information is collected, and upon acceptance of the vehicle, arrangements are made for the vehicle, keys and title to be picked up. Donors receive an acknowledgement letter for their vehicle donation they may use for tax purposes if they itemize deductions.

"Cars for Homes" provides an additional way to support Habitat for Humanity and help families in your community who are living in substandard conditions and simply need a hand up, not a hand out.

For information on how you can help eliminate poverty housing and homelessness, and potentially qualify for tax benefits for your vehicle donation, call Habitat for Humanity "Cars for Homes" car donation program at 1-877-277-HFHI (4344) or visit http://www.carsforhomes.org/

Quick Tips for Donating a Vehicle:

• Make sure the nonprofit organization is reputable by being familiar with its purpose and work in the community. Check with the local Better Business Bureau or similar organization to see if the nonprofit is in good standing.

• Inquire what percent of the vehicle’s sales go directly to the nonprofit organization. Habitat for Humanity receives between 70 and 85 percent of the total donation (after towing fees, etc.).

• Make sure the tower is licensed and insured and the donated vehicle will be sold through a licensed dealer.

• Sign the vehicle’s title directly to the nonprofit organization or their certified agent.

• Ask the nonprofit organization how funds from the donated vehicle will be used.