One heartbreaking unintended consequence of a good-intentioned policy. Yes, cash for clunkers is helping some who otherwise might not be able to afford a new car. But by demolishing their old cars, the government is leaving the most needy wanting.

The California faith-based homeless shelter, Mission Solano, is calling on the Obama Administration and both houses of Congress to quickly amend the Cash for Clunkers program to help charities hurt by the program. In short, they’re losing what’s always been their bread and butter - donated old cars. Ron Marlette, Mission Solano Executive Director tells Christian News Wire: 

“An unintended effect of the Cash for Clunkers program is that it diverts cars that could be donated to charities and then resold to those who cannot afford new vehicles. We are asking that these so-called clunkers not be destroyed but be turned over to charities for resale.” Marlette and community members stood in front of a backdrop of rows of cars destined for destruction, and surrounded by signs reading “Clemency for Clunkers” and “No Death Penalty for Cars”. The site, just yards away from the Fairfield Auto Mall has been nicknamed “Automobile Death Row”.

Read more about the shocking contrast between the Auto Mall and the shelter.