Overcome transportation challenges through vehicle repairs
It is difficult to navigate around the Chicago suburbs without a reliable vehicle. The C.A.R.S. Ministry helps individuals and families in need overcome their transportation challenges through car inspections and repair services.
All requests for transportation services require an assessment by the Care Team to qualify. If you are eligible, you will be pre-qualified for clinic services and able to schedule a clinic appointment. To meet with the Care Team, please make an appointment below or visit the Care Center during our open hours: there are a limited number of walk-in appointments that are first come, first served.
About C.A.R.S.
- Guests must be approved by the Care Team in order to schedule an appointment with the C.A.R.S. Ministry.
- Guests cover the cost of the parts for repairs; labor is provided for free by C.A.R.S. volunteer mechanics.
- The initial appointment is an inspection only: no repairs will be done on the same day.
- Guests are welcome to wait at the Care Center during their inspection and repair appointment.
Interested in Buying or Donating a Car?
Did you know you can support the C.A.R.S. Ministry by buying a car? Browse our selection to see what vehicles are available.
If you have an extra vehicle–running or not– that you’re not using, we invite you to consider donating it to the C.A.R.S. Ministry!
FAQs
How can I receive services?
You must first schedule an appointment with the Care Team to pre-qualify for a vehicle repair or to receive a car.
- You must be 18 years old.
- You must have a valid Illinois driver’s license.
- You must earn 150% or below the Federal poverty level.
- The vehicle must be registered in your name.
- The vehicle must not be over 20 years old OR have over 200,000 miles.
- A Photo ID
- Proof of Income (such as a pay stub, bank statement, social security payment, etc.)
- Proof of address, current within 30 days (such as a utility bill, piece of mail, etc.)
- Car Registration Card
You will then be able to bring your vehicle to the C.A.R.S. shop for an inspection. You are responsible for the full cost of the parts associated with the repair; the labor is free.
We do not repair transmissions, engines, head gaskets or body work.