Vandalism cripples car donation program

A Medinah church's efforts to give used cars to single mothers has come to an abrupt end after vandals damaged five cars that volunteers were hoping to restore.

The windows of the cars were smashed out while the vehicles were parked earlier this month in a lot at Medinah Baptist Church, 900 Foster Ave, police said. Someone also exploded fireworks in one of the cars.

Medinah Baptist officials say the vandalism caused so much damage that none of the cars will be repaired. And now the future of the church's entire car ministry program is in flux.

Dean Scott, the church's program director, said a decision has been made to dramatically scale down the program.

"This is just the final straw that broke the camel's back," Scott said.

The program was established about three years ago to provide used cars for single mothers and local families in need.

Now the ministry will only take in cars that are operable and in good condition to eliminate future risks. Such cars can immediately be turned over to prospective owners.

As for the damaged cars, they needs thousands of dollars' worth of repairs, officials said. Because the church can't afford the work, the vehicles most likely will be sold.

The cars, which are between 10 and 14 years old, were found damaged on July 6, police said. Scott said there was a sea of glass everywhere and cars had dents. Four of the cars have since been towed.

Church officials say they don't believe anyone was targeting them. Instead, the vandalism was a random crime, they said.

"It's a shame that a random act of vandalism caused good willed people to abandon their project," said Wayne Domke, a car ministry volunteer.

While Scott said he believes the vandalism was a random act, he said it was "very disturbing" for church members to see.

"It's like an attack on us," he said. "People take it personally."

Domke said the only good thing is that the vandalism happened before volunteers started work on restoring the cars.

"They were basically waiting to be repaired," he said. "We had plans, but we hadn't made any investments in them yet."

Church officials still are looking for operable cars to continue the program. To donate, call (630) 980-9421.