Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) Department is accepting used vehicles.

MIYFS will convert cars into cash, which becomes a welcomed source of funds to support mental health services on the Island. MIYFS offers a variety of programs, services and expertise that support the wellness and human service needs of all Mercer Islanders.

“This was just another way to raise money for youth and family services,” said Suzanne Philen, Mercer Island Thrift Shop manager.

Mercer Island Thrift Shop is a volunteer-powered organization that raises money to support the programs and services of MIYFS.

The thrift shop has partnered with Charitable Adult Rides and Services (CARS), a third party that collects vehicle donations. The Mercer Island Thrift Shop has been running the donations since 2013, according to Philen.

“It’s a great opportunity for [community members] to get rid of a vehicle hassle free and support a great program on Mercer Island,” Philen said. “Mercer Island is very fortunate to have this business supporting them. It really helps services go a lot further on the Mercer Island community.”

MIYFS accepts all types of cars, running or not. Trucks, boats, campers and snowmobiles are eligible, too, and welcomed.

CARS will tow away vehicles from anywhere (not limited to Mercer Island) for free. Car donations are tax deductible.

To donate, call the city’s partner at 1-855-500-7433 or initiate the donation online at https://bit.ly/2SPHLAl.

To learn more about the thrift shop go online to www.mercerislandthrift.org.