In October 2022, CFNA established a car grant program with funds raised by local LCMS churches. It provides up to $2,500 toward the purchase of a car by refugees who have been in the United States for less than a year. Owning a car makes a huge impact on the lives of these recently arrived New Americans by greatly facilitating their ability to get and hold a job, get to doctor appointments, enroll children in a private (LCMS) school, and have the freedom to enjoy the city of St. Louis.

To date, CFNA has assisted 23 refugees with car grants. Many were for the purchase of a car identified by HumanKind STL, another organization that assists with the resettlement of refugees. HumanKind secures the vehicles from local dealerships and both organizations provide the funds required for the purchase.

One of those who benefited from this ministry is Omar Momand, who received a mini-van big enough for his large family. Omar says, “We are very happy with the van we received from you. Now we can go anywhere with ease, like to the park, our friends’ place, the medical clinic or to work. Many thanks to the CFNA staff and donors. You have helped us a lot and your help will not be forgotten.”

Govinda, a recent refugee from Southeast Asia, received a car after a five month wait. The vehicle was made available through the CFNA-HumanKind STL partnership and has enabled him to travel to work and take care of his various life responsibilities. He says, “We are new to this place and don't know anything. I was desperate because I was told by my company in the Washington, MO area that I would lose my job if I could not come to work on my own. CFNA’s help with the car was a big blessing. I now go to work and take my other friends who work at the company with me. I can also go grocery shopping, and do all my house things without depending on and troubling others. The Christian people at CFNA helped me get my driver's license and also helped me get a car. Thank you so much for helping me."

The original funds raised for this program have been spent, but CFNA has been blessed to benefit from additional funds from Lutheran Foundation to continue this important work. There are still many recently arrived refugees in need of a car, and this serves as a great way to quickly link with them. If you wish to help us continue to change lives in this way you may do so at www.cfna-stl.org/donate, or by mailing a check to: CFNA, 4019 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63118.

By Kerry Pozaric
CFNA Business Manager

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Car Grants