Donna Webb and her four children have the gift of their own transportation this Christmas courtesy of Zara’s Collision Center’s Benevolence Program. Webb was presented with a completely refurbished 2006 Pontiac G6 GT last week during a luncheon ceremony at Zara’s facility.
Webb and her two youngest children, Gage, age 5 and Ivy, 3, are residents of the Inner City Mission, where Webb is employed. She and her children fled an abusive situation in St. Louis. Webb’s older children — Jeffrey, 16, and Hannah, 7 — live with other family members in St. Louis.
"The vehicle will help our family incredibly," said Webb. "Gage and I have health problems, so we have several appointments a week. Having our own transportation will lessen the stress of our family and help us to move forward in our healing process."
It is the 13th year that Zara’s has purchased at least one vehicle, restored it to pristine condition, and then donated the vehicle to an individual or organization in need. Over the course of those 13 years, Zara’s has given away 20 refurbished vehicles. A comprehensive maintenance check is done to verify the vehicle’s safety and reliability.
Typically, a lot of time is spent searching for the vehicles, ultimately purchasing them from the owners, salvage yards or insurance companies. More recently, vehicles have been donated by people in the community who have heard about Zara’s Benevolence Program, the shop noted.
"Providing something that makes an immediate difference in someone’s life is very gratifying," said co-owner Julie Zara. "The support of vendors, friends, family, insurance agents and employees was exceptionally strong. We had over 40 donors who contributed to the vehicle repair, paint material, mechanical work, toys, gift cards and monetary gifts. SIU Think First and St. John’s Children’s Hospital provided the car seats and installation."
In addition to the vehicle refurbishing, $2,985 in gift cards and financial assistance were received for donations to the Benevolence Fund.
Zara’s Collision Center is among the 21 AkzoNobel Acoat Selected shops across the country giving away a vehicle in December as part of a national effort to present refurbished cars to deserving individuals during the holiday season. Acoat shops will give away 21 vehicles this year.
"The program highlights individuals who are working to help themselves," said Zara. "A valid driver’s license and a good driving record are among the eligibility requirements."
