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The Stranded Motorist Fund® is currently at capacity and is not accepting new applications. Here is where things stand and what we can still do.
We are at capacity and not accepting new applications
Since July 2026 the Stranded Motorist Fund has been full. Every repair we fund is paid for by donations, and right now those funds are committed to the people already in our queue. We are not able to take new individual applications, and we do not have a date for when we can re-open. We would rather tell you that plainly than take an application we cannot act on.
What you can still do
Already applied? Your application is still with us. Being at capacity does not close applications that are already in the queue. You can check your application status or email us at info@strandedmotoristfund.org.
Working with a caseworker or agency? Have them reach out to us directly at info@strandedmotoristfund.org. Agency requests are how we prioritize as capacity opens back up.
Help us re-open sooner. Every repair we fund comes from donations. Donating or donating a vehicle is what moves the next person off the queue.
Are you an agency or nonprofit? We are still taking partner conversations — that path is open. Tell us about your organization.
Who Qualifies for Help?
We serve individuals and families in our community who are experiencing transportation crises. Priority is given to the following populations:
Survivors of Domestic Violence
Human Trafficking Survivors
Single Parents
Veterans in Need
Vehicle-Housed Families
Working Poor
These are the criteria we use when intake is open. We are at capacity and not accepting new applications, so please do not start an application yet — it would not reach a reviewer.
How We Evaluate Applications
For transparency, here's what we consider when reviewing your application:
Vehicle Viability
Is the vehicle worth repairing given its age, condition, and projected lifespan?
Financial Contribution
Can the applicant contribute anything toward repairs, even a small amount?
Crisis Urgency
What immediate consequences occur without assistance (job loss, medical access, safety)?
Repair Scope
Are the needed repairs within program scope and current budget?
Resource Availability
Current funding levels and capacity to take on new cases.
What to Expect
This is how the process runs when we are accepting applications. The timeframes below do not apply while we are at capacity.
Submit Your Application
Day 1Complete the application on our secure portal. It takes about 10-15 minutes.
Application Review
1-7 daysOur team reviews your application and may reach out for additional information. Emergency cases are prioritized.
Decision & Matching
7-14 daysIf approved, we match you with a certified repair shop or a donated vehicle based on your needs and our availability.
Repair or Delivery
VariesDrop off your vehicle at the assigned shop, or schedule pickup of your donated vehicle. We handle the rest!
Back on the Road
Goal!Drive away in a safe, reliable vehicle. We may follow up to see how things are going.
Agencies and caseworkers: this door is open
New individual applications are paused, but we are still talking with agencies and nonprofits. If you work with people whose lives are disrupted by a broken-down car, tell us about your organization — agency requests are how we prioritize as capacity opens back up.