Powerful. Purpose-Driven. Deeply Needed

VEHICLE REPOSSESSION GRANT PROGRAM

We’ve launched an emergency campaign grant program to raise a minimum of $5,000 quarterly to assist in preventing or aiding in vehicle repossession for those facing disability, job loss, or life transitions.

This cause is deeply personal. I’m Joya, the founder of Driven, Not Defeated, and I know the fear of losing everything—including your car.

Our grant program ensures every dollar helps someone get back on track.

Let’s move fast. Share. Donate. Save a car. Save a job.

The Mission

Today, I’m raising awareness through my campaign Driven, Not Defeated. Because when people like me lose income due to disability, it’s more than a source of income they risk losing. Many people lose their jobs—and their transportation—due to things they can’t control. Such as illness, layoffs, divorce, or death of a spouse. I know, because I’ve been there. I lost my job due to fibromyalgia plus the life transitions that were paired with it, and it nearly cost everything including my vehicle—my freedom.

This campaign exists not only to intervene before repossession, but also after you have depleted all other options. Driven, Not Defeated offers a second chance to those who need it most. So, if you believe in second chances please consider donating, or sharing.

Thank you in advance to everyone who’s donating, sharing, or sending encouragement from their heart. Your love fuels healing.

My journey isn’t just about me—it’s about all of us living with invisible illnesses and or hardships, fighting to keep our lives together.

Still want to support? There’s still time. Simply Click Donate.

If you would like to be waitlisted to receive assistance, please email diemagape@proton.me and you will be sent a link to the application.

FAQ

How many vehicles were repossessed in 2024?

In 2024, approximately 1.88 million vehicles were repossessed in the United States, averaging about 5,170 repossessions per day. This marks a significant increase from previous years, with repossessions rising 23% compared to 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 14%. Factors contributing to this surge include higher interest rates, increased vehicle prices, and broader economic pressures affecting consumers' ability to meet car payment obligations
#DrivenNotDefeated #GratefulHeart #FibromyalgiaAwareness

What does the workforce look like for disabled individuals?

Prevalence of Disability: Globally, an estimated 1.3 billion people experience significant disability, representing 16% of the world's population. World Health Organization (WHO)
Employment Rates: In the United States, the employment-population ratio for people with disabilities was 22.7% in 2024, significantly lower than the 65.5% for those without disabilities. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Unemployment Rates: The unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities remained about twice that of those without disabilities, standing at 7.5% in 2024. Bureau of Labor Statistics+1Bureau of Labor Statistics

It's important to note that lenders typically do not consider the reasons behind missed payments when initiating repossession; any default on an auto loan, regardless of cause, can lead to repossession.

For individuals receiving disability income or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), securing auto loans can be challenging. This difficulty arises because such income is exempt from garnishment, making lenders cautious about extending credit to these borrowers. Auto Credit Express

While comprehensive statistics linking disability to vehicle repossessions are lacking, it's evident that income disruptions, including those due to disability, can increase the risk of loan default and subsequent repossession.

The long-term impact of income disruptions due to disability on loan defaults and vehicle repossession extends beyond just losing a car. It creates a cascading effect that affects financial stability, creditworthiness, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life. Here’s the true impact over time:

1. Financial Instability and Credit Damage

Credit Score Decline – Repossession significantly lowers credit scores, making it harder to secure future loans.
Higher Interest Rates – After repossession, future car loans may come with much higher interest rates due to increased risk.
Accumulating Debt – Some borrowers still owe a deficiency balance after repossession, meaning they must pay the difference if the car sells for less than the loan amount.

2. Limited Mobility and Employment Challenges

Job Loss or Reduced Income – Losing a car can make it difficult to commute, resulting in missed work or job loss.
Reduced Job Opportunities – Many jobs require reliable transportation, limiting work options, especially for those in rural or underserved areas.
Increased Dependency on Public Assistance – If employment options shrink, individuals may have to rely more on disability benefits or government aid.

3. Emotional and Psychological Impact

Stress and Anxiety – The financial burden of repossession and the struggle to regain stability can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.
Loss of Independence – For those with disabilities, a repossessed vehicle can mean losing a lifeline to healthcare, social activities, and personal independence.
Mental Health Decline – The emotional toll of financial hardship can contribute to depression, especially when combined with the challenges of managing a disability.

4. Housing and Transportation Difficulties

Higher Risk of Eviction or Foreclosure – Financial struggles from repossession may spill over into other areas, like falling behind on rent or mortgage payments.
Long-Term Transportation Barriers – Without a car, access to healthcare, grocery stores, and essential services becomes more difficult, increasing reliance on others or costly ride services.

5. Legal and Financial Roadblocks

Garnished Wages and Lawsuits – If a deficiency balance remains unpaid, lenders can sue for repayment, leading to wage garnishments or bank account seizures.
Bankruptcy Consideration – Some may turn to bankruptcy as a last resort, further damaging their financial future.

Potential Solutions and Preventative Measures

Loan Modifications or Hardship Programs – Some lenders offer assistance for borrowers facing disability-related income loss.
Disability Income-Based Financing – Better financing options tailored for disabled individuals could help prevent unaffordable loans.
Public and Nonprofit Assistance – Programs that provide financial aid, low-cost vehicle options, or legal support for those at risk of repossession.
Improved Legislation and Consumer Protections – Stronger policies to safeguard people with disabilities from predatory lending or repossession risks.

Over time, income disruptions due to disability create a cycle of financial hardship that is difficult to escape. Preventative solutions and policy changes are needed to reduce the risk and long-term damage caused by repossessions. Which is why your contribution and participation in the Driven, Not Defeated Campaign is important. Please donate a minimum of $1 to help towards the cause.

DRIVEN, NOT DEFEATED

Spare a $1 or $2 to help a MULTITUDE

Team Members