Bill Davidson wants to give a car to someone in the Hope area who needs one.
It’s the first time the owner of Hope Autobody has run a giveaway like this in the community – he has owned the shop for a year-and-a-half. Together with other automotive companies he is working on fixing up a 2014 Mazda 2 he hopes to have in the hands of a new owner in September.
The giveaway is open only to Hope residents, as well as residents up the Fraser Canyon and areas surrounding Hope. Anyone can apply, and people can submit an application on behalf of someone they know who needs a vehicle.
Employees in the autobody shop will read each application to see who can benefit the most from the car. The idea, Davidson said, is to help someone whose lack of access to a car impedes their ability to work or otherwise go about their lives.
“It opens up a bunch of opportunities for people that could be in need of a new job or a change in their life…especially now with…different needs for kids going into school,” he said. “The intent is to, hopefully, open a door and create a really good opportunity for someone and hopefully change their life, really.”
Hope Autobody is supplying the four door hatchback as well as the volunteer hours of technicians to get the vehicle ready. The giveaway is a community effort by the local auto industry, with mechanical work donated by Brenners Automotive, a set of new tires from Kaltire and detail work by Kenny J’s Mobile Detailing. LKQ also provided parts at no charge.
To enter the giveaway, applicants need to write a one-page narrative on why or how the lack of reliable transportation impacts their economic status, as well as how the vehicle will assist them in becoming self-sufficient. This letter, and a resume, should be submitted by Sept. 4, online at raydarcollisiongroup.ca or in person at the 966 6 Ave. shop. “They can drop off a hand-written letter even,” Davidson said. “We want to be really open about how we receive applications.”
Applicants need to have a valid license and be able to insure the vehicle. Anyone with questions can call manager Stefan Jeppe at 604-869-5244.
Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email:
emelie.peacock@hopestandard.com
Facebook and follow us on Twitter
