Service King Collision Repair Centers and Esurance announced they have donated a newly refurbished 2011 Ford Focus to the family of Monika Stevens and Jody Barker through Family Promise of Sarasota.
The vehicle donation is part of Recycled Rides, a unique program developed by the National Auto Body Council in which insurers, collision repairers, paint suppliers, parts vendors and others collaborate to repair and donate vehicles to deserving individuals and service organizations in local communities throughout the country.
“Reliable transportation is something many of us take for granted,” said Scott Ward, Service King’s regional vice president, southeast operations. “We are proud to offer our time and resources to transform lives and touch families and organizations across the country. While the gift of a vehicle provides a practical means of transportation, what it really provides is hope.”
Monica, Jody and their 9-year-old daughter relocated to Florida just as Jody lost her job. Using all their savings for a motel until he and Monica found work again, the family soon ran out of money and came to Family Promise of Sarasota. Both found jobs shortly after entering the program, Monika in a medical office and Jody in construction.
“Esurance strives to make a difference in local communities, and we are pleased to work with Service King to help ease the transportation burden for Monica and Jody,” said Esurance Vice President of Material Damage Joe Laurentino.
“This family was a pleasure to work with,” said Wendy Fitton, director of Family Promise. “Monika has a car, but it’s problematic and has been towed and in the shop more than once during their stay with us. Jody has had to walk, ride a bikecor use our county buses to get to and from work daily. It’s definitely been a struggle. The family forged ahead and moved into their two-bedroom rental home this past April and are actively participating in our aftercare services. We are grateful to Service King and Esurance for providing the family with a vehicle. It will be life changing.”
